Common Hazel, European Hazelnut, Cobnut
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Tracheophyta, Class: Magnoliopsida, Order: Fagales, Family: Betulaceae, Genus: Corylus, Species: Corylus avellana · Betulaceae (Birch family) · Simple, deciduous
Species
Corylus avellana
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Family
Betulaceae (Birch family)
Shape
Broadly ovate to rounded, often slightly cordate (heart-shaped) at the base with an acuminate tip
Size
Approximately 2.5 to 5 inches (6-12 cm) long and wide, matching typical mature foliage for this species
Margin
Doubly serrate (coarsely and irregularly toothed edges)
Arrangement
Alternate, two-ranked along stem branches
Rarity
Very Common
Color & Pattern
Medium to bright green upper surface with slightly paler, yellowish-green undersides; vibrant yellow to brown fall color
Venation Pattern
Pinnate with prominent parallel secondary veins branching outward to the margin teeth
Texture & Surface
Softly pubescent (hairy) on both sides, especially along veins on the underside; slightly soft and papery texture
Description
European Hazel is a large deciduous shrub or small tree growing up to 15-20 feet tall. It forms dense multi-stemmed thickets and features distinctive rounded, hairy leaves with doubly serrate margins. In early spring before leaves emerge, it displays yellow male catkins and tiny crimson female flowers. Autumn produces edible hazelnuts enclosed in leafy husks.
Key Features
Rounded-ovate shape with doubly serrate margins, asymmetrical heart-shaped base, soft hairy surface, and prominent pinnate veins extending directly into the tooth tips
Habitat
Deciduous woodlands, forest edges, hedgerows, and scrublands; prefers moist, well-drained fertile soils in full sun to partial shade
Geographic Range
Native to Europe, Western Asia, and Northern Africa; widely cultivated globally in temperate regions for hazelnuts
Condition Notes
Overall foliage health is Good to Excellent. Minor insect chewing marks on a few leaves, but generally vibrant green, healthy tissue without severe chlorosis or rust.
Interesting Facts
Hazelnuts have been harvested by humans since the Mesolithic era. Wood from hazel stems was traditionally used for coppicing, wattle fencing, and dowsing rods.
Medicinal & Uses
Nuts are commercially harvested for food and confectionary. Leaves and bark have historical traditional medicinal uses for astringent properties.
Ecological Role
Provides critical food for mammals like squirrels, dormice, and jay birds, as well as larval food for numerous moth species.
Similar Species
American Hazelnut (Corylus americana - longer husk glandular hairs), Turkish Hazel (Corylus colurna - tree habit, deeply lobed leaves), Alder (Alnus glutinosa - notched tip, leathery texture)
Foraging Tips
Look in hedgerows and woodland edges in early autumn (September-October) for clusters of edible nuts enclosed in leafy green husks.
Toxicity Warning
Non-toxic. Edible nuts, though individuals with tree nut allergies should exercise caution.