Corylus avellana

Common name: Common hazel

Description: A deciduous native shrub or small tree with rounded, toothed leaves and long, pale yellow catkins in late winter, followed by edible hazelnuts in autumn; traditionally coppiced for hedging and plant supports.

Other benefits: Valuable UK native wildlife shrub; edible nuts; useful for hedging, coppicing and plant supports.

Wildlife attraction: Catkins provide an important early pollen source for bees; nuts are eaten by squirrels, woodpeckers and other birds; dense growth provides shelter and nesting cover.

Height & spread (approx.) at 10 years: 4-5m x 4-5m

Position: Full sun to partial shade

Soil pH: Neutral; chalky; clay

Moisture: Moist but well-drained

Winter hardiness: Fully hardy (RHS H6)