Göte,
Hamamelis virginiana is strange for several reasons. In the north (and sometimes in cultivation) it apparently has a sweet scent that is akin to the Asian species or even vernalis which is very sweet. The southern forms (often a different name) and west into the Ozarks are scented more like a sea water 
I find this curious and would think that they attract different pollinators. There is a minute amount of genetic evidence that shows virginiana might be two species. One would need many samples and up-to-date genetics to really determine that. Still waiting to see some genetic evidence supporting H. ovalis.
Aaron
Thank you Aaron,
That explains why Olga finds it fragrant and I find it smelly. Now it becomes really difficult. How can I know which one I find in the nursery? Many nurseries are closed at the time H.v. is in flower.
Göte
