Corylus maxima 'Purpurea' (F)

RHS Plant Profile
purple-leaved filbert

Synonyms

Corylus maxima 'Atropurpurea'
Corylus maxima 'Purple Filbert'

Shrubs

'Purpurea' is a large deciduous shrub to 6m, with broad, deep purple leaves to 12cm in length. Pendulous pale yellow catkins on leafless twigs in late winter are followed by edible nuts concealed by a tubular husk

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

4-8 metres

Max Spread

2.5-4 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
10–20 years
Max Spread
2.5-4 metres
Max Height
4-8 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained or Well–drained
pH
Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or East–facing or North–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H6

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Betulaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Genus
Corylus are deciduous trees and large shrubs with broad leaves, and showy male catkins in early spring, followed by edible nuts
Name Status
Accepted
Horticultural Group
This genus produces fruit, but not necessarily edible fruit

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grows well in chalky soil in sun or partial shade. For fruit production, grow as a goblet-shaped bush. Keep clear soil in a 60cm radius around trunk

Propagation

Propagate by grafting

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Wildflower meadow
  • Low Maintenance
  • Hedging and screens

Pruning

Pruning group 1

Pests

May be susceptible to caterpillars, gall mites, aphids and sawflies. Squirrels like to feed on the nuts

Diseases

May be susceptible to honey fungus, silver leaf and powdery mildews