Hazel

Corylus avellana

Height 8-10 m; bole up to 40 cm diameter. Deciduous. Rounded crown. Bark is light brown, becomes grey-brown in older trees. Leaves are rounded, heart-shaped at base, downy, serrated, 5-10 x 4-8 cm. Yellow in autumn.

What habitats does it normally live in?

Native to Britain and Europe. Woodland understorey. Grown for its nuts.

How does it reproduce or breed?

Flowers in late winter on previous season's growth. Female flowers from buds. Male catkins are yellow and pendulous. Fruit is a brown nut 1.5-2 cm long, with a leafy husk. Nuts are eaton by squirrels, voles and mice, also nuthatches and other birds.

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