About

Corylus avellana is a sizable deciduous shrub or a small tree that typically reaches heights of approximately 6 meters. Its rounded leaves are a mid-green hue, transitioning to yellow as autumn approaches. In early spring, this plant produces elongated male catkins that can measure up to 6 centimeters. By autumn, it bears edible nuts that are a notable feature of this species.

About the genus

Corylus comprises deciduous trees and sizable shrubs featuring wide leaves. In early spring, they produce prominent male catkins, which are succeeded by edible nuts.

Growing conditions

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
Aspect
West-facing, South-facing, East-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H6

Plant details

Plant type
Shrubs, Trees
Habit
Spreading branched
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
4-8 metres
Spread
4-8 metres
Time to full height
5-10 years
Suggested uses
Cottage and informal garden, Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens
Native to
Europe, W Asia, N Africa

Care notes

Cultivation
Grow in any moist but well-drained soil in sun or partial shade, ideal for chalky soils. For more information see cobnuts and filberts
Pruning
Pruning group 1 and Pruning group 7 - suitable for coppicing alternate years to keep height restricted
Propagation
Propagate by seed, layering or stooling or removing rooted suckers
Pest resistance
May be susceptible to caterpillars, gall mites, aphids and sawflies. Squirrels like to feed on the nuts
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to honey fungus, silver leaf and powdery mildews