Common hazel (Corylus avellana)

Common hazel

Also known as: European filbert, Cobnut, Common filbert

Common hazel (Corylus avellana) is a deciduous shrub species that is cultivated for its edible nuts. Hazelnuts can refer to the nut from any Corylus species, but it most often refers to Corylus avellana. The nuts from common hazel are eaten straight or used in making confectionary. Common hazel is native to Europe and western Asia.

Scientific classification

Species

Common hazel (Corylus avellana)

Beeches, walnuts, and allied trees

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Perennial

Lifespan

Tree, Shrub

Plant Type

Spring, Winter

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

3 m to 15 m

Plant Height

Brown, Red, Green, Copper, Yellow, Gold

Fruit Color

Yellow, Green, Red

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Images of Common hazel

Distribution of Common hazel

Distribution Map

Common hazel is naturally found in a broad region spanning across the temperate zones of Europe and into Western Asia. Its indigenous range stretches from the north in Scandinavia to the southern reaches of the Mediterranean. It is also native to parts of the Middle East. Beyond these areas, common hazel has been introduced and is cultivated in various temperate locales around the world.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Woodland garden secondary, sunny edge, dappled shade, hedge

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Common hazel is a shrub and tree cultivated commercially for itsedible nuts. It serves as a privacy plant in hedges, plant screens, and borders. It is ideal in naturalized garden spaces like cottage or prairie gardens, meadows, and woodlands.

Symbolism

Fertility

Interesting Facts

Pagans attributed magical powers to the common hazel. A hazel rod made a good wand and also repelled evil spirits. Some people still use it for water-divining. Ancient Britons carried hazel nuts as lucky charms and to alleviate aches and pains. To the Irish, it was the “Tree of Knowledge,” and in the Middle Ages it represented fertility.

Name Story

Common hazel: The scientific name Corylus avellana refers to Avella, an Italian town where the tree flourished. In the 16th century,the species was called the “wild nut of Avella.”

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Common hazel, including the following common varieties :

'Red Majestic' Hazelnut Common hazel 'Webbs Prize Cob'Common hazel 'Scooter'Harry lauder's walking stick

Quickly Identify Common hazel

Deciduous broad leaves, 2.5-5 inches wide (6-13 cm), double-serrate edges.

Smooth silvery-gray bark turning fissured with age, young bark red-brown tint.

Distinctive fruit: spherical nut, 0.5-1 inch diameter (1.25-2.5 cm), green husk.

Male flowers: yellow-brown catkins, 1-2 inches long (2.5-5 cm), inconspicuous female flowers.

Multi-trunked stems, dense thickets, twisting growth, hairy young shoots, smooth with age.

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Care Guide for Common hazel

Every 2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Common hazel originates from temperate regions and prefers moist, well-drained soil. It shows moderate drought tolerance and requires watering every two weeks during its growing season. Primarily cultivated outdoors, it benefits from natural rainfall for robust growth during active phases.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, common hazel requires balanced fertilizers in spring and high-nitrogen options pre-budburst, applied every 6-8 weeks. Regular feeding boosts vigor, while frequency should decrease in winter. Even distribution is essential to prevent root burn, supporting common hazel's longevity and health.

Pruning: Common hazel is a shrub valued for catkins and nuts. Prune in early spring to remove dead branches and thin crowded areas, enhancing airflow. This practice boosts light penetration, reduces fungal risks, and promotes vigorous growth and nut yield. Consult horticultural guides for pruning diagrams.

Propagation: Common hazel, a deciduous shrub valued for its edible nuts, can be propagated by sowing fresh seeds after winter stratification. Use well-draining soil and maintain moisture. Seedlings need consistent care, protection from predators, and strong support for healthy growth.

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