Witch-hazel capsules toss their shiny black seeds — ChillScroll

An open brown witch-hazel capsule with two glossy black seeds on an autumn leaf

Witch-hazel capsules toss their shiny black seeds

As a witch-hazel capsule dries, its two halves squeeze the smooth seeds inside. The capsule finally opens and sends the seeds several yards away from the branch.

The flowers wear yellow ribbons; the seeds make one quick hop.

Source · University of Maryland Extension ↗