Introducing...
Hazel
Botanical name: Corylus
Common name: hazel
Hazels are a versatile group of deciduous trees and large shrubs. They are probably best known for their yellow, dangling catkins on bare branches in early spring, followed by edible nuts in autumn. The common hazel (Corylus avellana) is excellent for wildlife gardens, hedgerows and woodland settings.
Looks
Hazel species vary in size, typically reaching 3-8m tall, with rounded leaves that turn yellow in autumn. They can make a graceful arching form if kept coppiced and make the perfect setting for spring flowers. Some varieties have deep red leaves and others have interesting, twisted branches.
Likes
They thrive in well-drained, fertile soil in sun or partial shade. They appreciate shelter from strong winds and do well in mixed hedgerows or naturalistic planting schemes.
Dislikes
Hazels dislike waterlogged soils and may struggle in very dry or exposed sites. Heavy pruning at the wrong time can reduce nut production.
Did you know?
In folklore, hazel was a symbol of wisdom, and hazel twigs are used to this day for the traditional art of dowsing – finding water hidden underground.
Growing guide
How to grow shrubs
All the information you need to grow and care for hazels in your garden
Hazels we recommend
Corylus avellana 'Rotblättrige Zellernuss' (F)
hazel 'Rotblättrige Zellernuss'
- 2.5–4 metres
- 2.5–4 metres
Corylus maxima 'Kentish Cob' (F)
filbert 'Kentish Cob'
- 2.5–4 metres
- 2.5–4 metres
Corylus avellana 'Contorta'
corkscrew hazel
- 2.5–4 metres
- 2.5–4 metres
Corylus avellana 'Rotblättrige Zellernuss' (F)
hazel 'Rotblättrige Zellernuss'
- 2.5–4 metres
- 2.5–4 metres
Corylus maxima 'Kentish Cob' (F)
filbert 'Kentish Cob'
- 2.5–4 metres
- 2.5–4 metres
Corylus avellana 'Contorta'
corkscrew hazel
- 2.5–4 metres
- 2.5–4 metres
Useful advice
Cobnuts and filberts
Choosing native trees and shrubs
Hedgerow fruit
Layering
Trees and shrubs: establishment problems
Trees and shrubs: planting
Coppicing
Grey squirrels
Get involved
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