If it seems miraculous that a shrub could flower in an area of the country that has average minimum winter temperatures of -10 to -20 degrees Fahrenheit, it is! But the wise witchhazel has a special adaptation to cold: while a sunny day above even slightly above freezing will pop the flowerbuds open, a sudden chill will cause the petals to roll up for protection. Then, at the slightest hint of warmth, they unfurl again, just like those paper favors kids like to blow on at birthday parties. |
