Characteristics
The hazelnut goes by the botanical species name Corylus avellana. It can grow to heights of 3-6 meters and widths of 4-5 meters. Corylus avellana is characterized by its spreading growth. The hazelnut can therefore undoubtedly be defined as a large shrub. In contrast to some other woody plants, the common hazel does not form a bark. However, the wood of Corylus avellana can be described as moderately hard and relatively tough.
Pollination and foliage
Corylus avellana is monoecious. Both cross-pollination and wind pollination should be mentioned as types of pollination. The leaves are characterized by a simple structure and an alternating leaf arrangement. Another important feature is the sawn leaf edge. In winter the common hazel gets by without leaves. It is therefore a deciduous plant.
Soil condition
The hazelnut bush is happy about a moderately moist and deep soil. This can also be extremely humus-containing. Planting on salty soils is not recommended. The common hazel is happy about warm summer locations as well as light forests and therefore also grows in the peripheral areas of the forest ecosystems. Corylus avellana is frost hardy down to -28 degrees and should therefore survive even harder winters without complications.
Provenance
Corylus avellana has been very common in Central Europe since the last Ice Age. The hazelnut bush can also be found in the Alps at an altitude of up to 1,700 meters. But this large shrub can also be found in Asia Minor.
Uses
The hazelnut can be used for a variety of purposes. In the forest ecosystems, Corylus avellana is extremely useful in increasing biodiversity. In particular, the function of the hazelnut bush as a bird protection tree emerges as relevant. There is nothing wrong with using it as a field hedge. Use as a nectar and pollen plant is also conceivable.