Corylus avellana - Hazel

Corylus avellana - Hazel

A native Irish tree, once believed to be the tree of knowledge, Corylus avellana is a large, deciduous shrub or small tree with a spreading, bushy habit. The large, mid-green leaves are broad, almost round, with a serrated edge, and turn yellow in autumn. The long, yellow male catkins appear in January and February; although the tiny, red-styled female flowers appear on the same tree, they must be pollinated by wind-blown pollen from another tree. From September, the hazel-nuts appear, sheathed in a frilly green husk; they are delicious, and highly nutritious – high in protein, mono-unsaturated fat, minerals and Vitamin E. Hazels can be coppiced, and will regrow long stems, ideal as bean-poles.

Site: Tolerates exposure
Soil: Any light, well drained soil, preferably alkaline or neutral
Position: Full sun or partial shade
Season of interest: Autumn in particular
Hardiness: Very hardy
Height: up to 26’ (8m) Spread: 26’ (8m)

Learn more about how to choose and grow hazelnuts and other nuts in our advice section and on our resources page.

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