Common Hazel

(Corylus avellana)

Common Hazel (Corylus avellana)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Corylus avellana, commonly known as Common Hazel or Filbert, is a deciduous shrub native to Europe and western Asia, where it thrives in a variety of habitats including woodlands, forest edges, and hedgerows, particularly in lowland England. It is an integral part of traditional agricultural landscapes, often used in coppicing—a sustainable method of woodland management. The shrub typically grows to a height of 3–8 meters with a spread that is often equal to its height. Common Hazel is notable for its early spring flowers, which are yellowish male catkins and smaller red-tipped female flowers, appearing before the leaves. The plant is valued for its edible nuts, which are harvested in the autumn.

Common Hazel is appreciated for its multi-stemmed, bushy habit, and its ability to form dense thickets, making it suitable for use as a hedge or in wildlife gardens. It provides food and habitat for wildlife, particularly squirrels and various bird species. In cultivation, it adapts well to a range of soil types, provided they are well-drained, and it can grow in full sun to part shade. While it requires medium amounts of water, it is relatively low maintenance once established. Gardeners should be aware of its potential to spread and become invasive outside its native range.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree, Shrub
  • Height: 12-20 feet
  • Width: 8-15 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Winter
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Hedges, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Woodlands, forest edges, and traditional agricultural landscapes

Other Names

Common Names: European Filbert, European Hazel, European Hazelnut, Common Hazel, Hazel, Barcelona-Nuts, Giant Filbert, Filbert, Cobnut, Hassel

Scientific Names: , Corylus avellana, Corylus avellana f. laciniata, Corylus avellana f. aurea, Corylus grandis, Corylus laciniata, Corylus avellana var. fusco-rubra, Corylus avellana var. pendula, Corylus avellana var. sylvestris, Corylus sylvestris

GBIF Accepted Name: Corylus avellana L.