TreesCorylus avellana
Common Hazel
The hazel is a native large shrub or small tree that enlivens the garden as early as February and March with long, golden-yellow catkins — one of the first food sources for bees after winter. In autumn, hazelnuts follow in their characteristic green husks. Hazel grows multi-stemmed and makes a beautiful native hedge or specimen.
Characteristics
- Sun
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Water
- Medium
- Height
- 300–600 cm
- Spread
- 300–500 cm
- Hardiness zone
- 4–8
- Family
- Betulaceae
- Evergreen
- No
- Flower colors
- yellow
- Wildlife value
- bees, birds, squirrels
Bloom period
Care guide
Plant in full sun to partial shade in virtually any soil. Hazel is exceptionally adaptable and tolerates even heavy clay. Water only during prolonged drought. Feeding is rarely needed. Consider planting a second cultivar for better nut set.
Pruning tips
Prune in late autumn or winter. Remove a few of the oldest stems at the base to keep the shrub open. Hazel tolerates hard pruning and can be cut back to the ground for rejuvenation. Remove suckers if the shrub spreads too wide.
Good companions
ShrubsSambucus nigra
Elder
Elder is a native large shrub or small tree bearing flat, creamy-white flower clusters in June that release a delightfully sweet fragrance. In autumn, glossy dark purple berries follow, beloved by birds. Both flowers and berries are edible and have been used for centuries in elderflower cordial and elderberry juice.
TreesTaxus baccata
English Yew
English Yew is an evergreen conifer used both as a freestanding tree and as a formal hedge. Its dark green needles are densely packed and form an impenetrable screen. Female trees bear striking red berries in autumn. All parts except the berry flesh are poisonous.
ClimbersHedera helix
Common Ivy
Common Ivy is an evergreen climber that uses aerial roots to cover walls, fences, and trees. Its dark green, glossy leaves provide year-round greenery. Mature plants flower in autumn with inconspicuous green-yellow blooms that are an important late food source for bees and insects.