Common Hazel
corylus avellana
Also known as: ["European Hazel","Hazel Nut"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub or small tree native to Europe and western Asia, known for its edible nuts and ornamental catkins.
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 avellana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden, preferably in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–25–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with organic matter; tolerates slightly sandy or clay soils if well-drained.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter/early spring; light pruning after harvest if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old wood to stimulate new growth.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust for intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun; protect from harsh midday sun; provide shade in extreme heat.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; avoid intense afternoon sun; rotate plants for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-drained, fertile, loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; test soil pH periodically.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 4–9; tolerates cold winters; prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F) during active growth.
Protect from frost; water deeply before cold snaps; avoid sudden temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize in spring only; avoid over-fertilizing; water before and after feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings in early summer; layering in spring; seed propagation (requires stratification).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant when rooted.
Best Time: Early summer for cuttings; late winter/early spring for layering or seeds.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%); warm temperatures (65–75°F); partial shade.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for cuttings; well-draining soil for layering.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for cuttings to improve success rate.
Timeline
Cuttings root in 4–8 weeks; seedlings emerge in 1–3 months after stratification.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bags, misting spray bottle.
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 shape young branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead wood, and encourage nut production; focus on young growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/diseased wood; thin crowded branches; shape as needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure adequate root space.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Corylus avellana is typically grown in-ground; container-grown plants may need repotting every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots; use fresh soil; 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; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce 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 or sand for drainage; avoid heavy clay amendments.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; dieback in prolonged cold; reduced growth in temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Leaves may wilt or turn brown; growth slows; buds may fail to develop in severe cold.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; protect from harsh winds; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may stall; reduced nut production.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check soil nutrients; apply fertilizer in spring; water thoroughly after application.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; reduce or stop fertilizing in late summer/autumn.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCorylus avellana is not considered toxic to cats. The nuts are safe for consumption in moderation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicCorylus avellana is not considered toxic to dogs. The nuts are safe for consumption in moderation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicCorylus avellana, commonly known as the common hazel, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. The nuts are edible and widely consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are the nuts of Corylus avellana edible?
A: Yes, the nuts are edible and commonly consumed.
Q: Does Corylus avellana require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun.
Q: Is Corylus avellana suitable for wildlife gardens?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds, making it ideal for wildlife gardens.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Betulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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