Hazel hazel Common hazel is a multi-stemmed shrub that can also be trained as a small tree. Catkins (male) open late winter to early spring; female flowers are tiny red styles on buds. Plants sucker naturally and respond very well to coppicing. For nuts, choose well-matched cultivars with overlapping bloom. Typical bearing starts 3–5 years after planting, with peak yields from year 7+. Resistant and low-maintenance, hazel also offers wildlife value and can host truffle inoculations in suitable soils. Corylus avellana (common hazel) is the standard in Northern Europe; Corylus maxima (filbert) has larger nuts but is slightly less hardy. Growing conditions LightFull sun to partial shade; best nut yields in full sun with at least 6 hours of direct light. Soil typeMoist but well-drained loam or sandy loam; tolerates clay if not waterlogged. Add organic matter for structure. Water requirementModerate; even moisture during establishment and nut fill, drought-tolerant once established. Nutrient requirementLow to moderate. Benefits from annual compost and light spring feeding; avoid excessive nitrogen that promotes suckers over nuts. Back to plant list
