Purple Filbert
corylus maxima
Also known as: ["Purple Hazel","Red Filbert"]
Overview
A deciduous tree or large shrub known for its purple foliage and edible nuts.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fagales |
| Family: | Betulaceae |
| Genus: | Corylus |
| Botanical Name: | Corylus maxima |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden, preferably in a location sheltered from strong winds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–25–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with organic matter; tolerates clay if amended.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to 20% of growth per year.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants gradually to full sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot regions; ensure adequate airflow to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Avoid sudden light changes; provide shade during extreme heat; rotate plants for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate fertility
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; enrich with organic matter; avoid waterlogged conditions.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 4–9; prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates winter lows to -20°F (-29°C).
Protect from late frosts; water deeply before cold snaps; avoid placing near heat sources.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only in growing season; avoid over-fertilizing; water after feeding to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Hardwood cuttings in late winter; layering; seed propagation (slow and variable).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem.
- Cut below node.
- Apply hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late winter or early spring before bud break.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%); indirect light; consistent warmth (60–70°F).
Medium
Perlite and peat mix; well-draining soil.
Hormone
Recommended for cuttings to improve rooting success.
Timeline
Roots in 4–8 weeks; establishment in 1–2 years.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, pots, misting system.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; avoid direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open canopy; heading cuts to shape; remove suckers.
Pruning Plan
Shape and remove dead/diseased wood; encourage nut production; maintain air circulation.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches).
Checklist
Sterilize tools; remove dead wood; thin crowded areas; shape as needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Not applicable for established field plants; container plants may need one size up every 2–3 years.
Method
Minimize root disturbance; use well-draining soil; water thoroughly after transplanting.
Suggestions
Not typically repotted; field-grown plants are transplanted infrequently.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; water and settle.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain freely; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure; incorporate perlite for drainage; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; dieback in prolonged cold; reduced nut production in temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Leaves may yellow or drop; growth slows; buds may abort in extreme cold.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect young plants with burlap screens; avoid wet soil in winter.
Hot Stress
Wilting; leaf scorch; reduced nut yield; stunted growth.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check soil nutrients; apply fertilizer; water thoroughly; monitor for signs of burn.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; reduce feeding in late summer.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCorylus maxima nuts are not toxic to cats. However, ingestion in large amounts may lead to mild gastrointestinal issues due to the high fat content.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic unless consumed in excessive quantities
Dogs
Non-toxicThe nuts of Corylus maxima are not considered toxic to dogs. However, large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to their high fat content.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic unless consumed in excessive quantities
Humans
Non-toxicCorylus maxima, commonly known as the purple hazel, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. The nuts are edible and commonly consumed, but excessive consumption may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic unless consumed in excessive quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are the nuts of Corylus maxima edible?
A: Yes, the nuts are edible and can be consumed raw or cooked.
Q: Does Corylus maxima require full sun?
A: It prefers full sun to partial shade for optimal growth.
Q: How tall does Corylus maxima grow?
A: It typically grows to 10–15 feet tall, though it can reach up to 20 feet in ideal conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Betulaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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