After another 5 inches of snow Friday into Saturday, any signs of spring were quickly covered. A bright sun today has melted a lot of it allowing us to open the gate and finally venture into the secret garden.
The snow drops that were peeking through on Thursday are covered again, but the witch hazel stands out like yellow and orange stars against the snow and blue sky.
I always had an affinity for witch hazel since its blooms are present in the northeast in the winter when very little other blooms exist. And being a pharmacist, any natural medicinal holds a special place in my heart.
Some interesting witch hazel facts:
The original manufacture of the bark of the witch hazel plant as an astringent was born in Essex CT.
The astringent is manufactured from plants in CT, RI, MA, and southern Appalachians.
Witch hazel seed pods burst open, shooting out their seeds onto the forest floor.
Divining rods were often made from witch hazel.
Label source: Professional Pharmacy Stamford, CT archives
This is my nature walk post for this still snowy and cold, but very pretty day.
Have a wonderful day!
oooh! pretty!
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