oczar

Oczar is a genus of flowering plants in the family Hamamelidaceae. Commonly known as witch hazel, these plants are native to North America and Asia. There are several species within the genus, with Hamamelis virginiana being the most widely recognized in North America. Oczar plants are deciduous shrubs or small trees, often recognized for their distinctive yellow flowers that bloom in late autumn or early winter, after the leaves have fallen. These flowers typically have long, thin, strap-like petals that give them a spidery appearance.

The leaves of oczar plants are generally ovate with serrated margins. After flowering, the plant produces small, woody seed capsules that split open explosively when mature, scattering seeds. Oczar has a long history of medicinal use, particularly by Native American tribes who utilized its astringent properties to treat various skin ailments, wounds, and inflammation. Extracts from the bark and leaves are still used today in many skincare products and over-the-counter remedies for their anti-inflammatory and soothing effects. The genus name, Hamamelis, comes from the Greek words "hama" meaning "at the same time" and "melis" meaning "apple tree," referring to the plant's simultaneous flowering and fruiting.