Witch Hazel, an ornamental shrub that grows 6 to 30 feet (1.8 to 9 m) in height. "Witch" comes from the Old English word "wych," used to describe a plant whose branches bend easily; "hazel" refers to the flowers, which are dull yellow or golden-yellow. Some varieties have orange or red flowers. Depending on the species, the flowers appear in autumn, winter, or early spring; they are particularly resistant to cold weather. The leaves are oval and have toothed edges.