Beaked Hazel
corylus cornuta
Also known as: ["Beaked Filbert","Hazel Nut"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub or small tree native to North America, known for its distinctive beaked nuts and graceful habit.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fagales |
| Family: | Betulaceae |
| Genus: | Corylus |
| Botanical Name: | Corylus cornuta |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden, adaptable to various soil types
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if indoor air is very dry
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; suitable for acidic to neutral pH.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed for rejuvenation.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); adaptable to varying light conditions.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; suitable for both indoor and outdoor placement with proper light adjustment.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains for intense sun; monitor for sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, less in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; adjust based on season and weather.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic matter
pH: Acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–9; tolerates cold winters and moderate summers; prefers temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C) during active growth.
Protect from late frost; ensure good air circulation in heat; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
annually in early spring with balanced slow-release fertilizer
Fertilize only during active growth; dilute liquid fertilizer to half strength; avoid nitrogen-heavy formulas.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings in early summer; seed propagation is also viable but slower.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Early summer for cuttings; autumn for seeds after cold stratification.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%); warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C); indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; peat moss can be added for moisture retention.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for cuttings to improve success rates.
Timeline
Cuttings may root in 4–8 weeks; seed germination can take several months with cold stratification.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, misting spray bottle, plastic bags or propagation dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the canopy; heading cuts to control size; remove crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage air circulation.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
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; avoid wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress; stunted growth in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn yellow or brown; growth slows or halts; potential dieback of new shoots in severe cold.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect from harsh winds; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Wilting despite moist soil; leaf scorch or yellowing; reduced flowering or nut production.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid late-season feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing, especially in late summer or fall.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCorylus cornuta is not considered toxic to cats. The nuts are not harmful if ingested in moderation.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicCorylus cornuta is not considered toxic to dogs. The nuts are not harmful if ingested in moderation.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicCorylus cornuta, commonly known as the beaked hazel, is not considered toxic to humans. The nuts are edible and commonly consumed.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are the nuts of Corylus cornuta edible?
A: Yes, the nuts are edible and can be harvested for consumption.
Q: Does Corylus cornuta attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts birds and small mammals that feed on its nuts.
Q: Is Corylus cornuta suitable for shade?
A: Yes, it can tolerate partial shade but thrives best in full sun to partial shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Betulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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