Winterhazel, Corylopsis. Another shrub that flowers in early spring, closely related to witch hazel. Not quite as early, blooming in April, but their fragrance and burst of yellow on naked stems have a magical quality. Fragrant Winterhazel, C. glabrescens, and Spike Winterhazel, C. spicata, are the most cold hardy, though outside the warm valley of Ithaca, a sheltered spot is best to protect their flower buds.