Common Hazel, European Filbert, Cobnut
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Angiosperms, Class: Eudicots, Order: Fagales, Family: Betulaceae, Genus: Corylus, Species: Corylus avellana · Betulaceae (Birch family) · Simple, deciduous
Species
Corylus avellana (95% confidence)
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Family
Betulaceae (Birch family)
Shape
Orbicular to broadly ovate, frequently slightly lobed toward the apex, with a cordate (heart-shaped) base
Size
Approximately 3.5 to 4 inches in width and length; typical species range is 2-5 inches
Margin
Doubly serrate (teeth upon teeth)
Arrangement
Alternate
Rarity
Very Common; a staple of European woodlands and modern landscaping
Color & Pattern
Mid-to-dark green upper surface, paler underside; turns yellow-brown in autumn; no variegation; reddish-brown glandular hairs visible on the petiole
Venation Pattern
Pinnate with prominent, straight secondary veins reaching the margins
Texture & Surface
Soft and downy due to fine hairs (pubescent) on both sides, especially on veins; slightly rugose (wrinkled) appearance
Description
The Hazel is a large deciduous shrub or small tree known for its multi-stemmed habit and edible nuts. The leaves are distinctive for their almost circular shape and soft, hairy texture. In late winter, before leaves appear, the plant produces pendulous yellow male catkins and tiny red female flowers.
Key Features
Cordate leaf base, doubly serrate margins, hairy petiole with reddish glands, and prominent straight veins
Habitat
Found in deciduous woodlands, hedgerows, and scrub; prefers moist, well-drained, alkaline to neutral soils in sun or partial shade
Geographic Range
Native to Europe, Western Asia, and Northern Africa; widely cultivated as an ornamental and nut crop globally
Condition Notes
Good health; minor brown necrotic spot on the left side and slight tearing at the margin, likely mechanical or early insect feeding; color is vibrant green
Interesting Facts
Hazel wood is historically used for 'water divining' or dowsing rods. It is a 'pioneer' species that can live for hundreds of years if regularly coppiced (cut back to the base).
Medicinal & Uses
Primary use is the production of hazelnuts (filberts) for food and oil. The wood is flexible and used for weaving hurdles, walking sticks, and wattle-and-daub construction.
Ecological Role
High wildlife value; provides food for squirrels, dormice, and birds. It is a host plant for over 70 species of caterpillars, including the Nut Weevil.
Similar Species
Corylus americana (American Hazelnut) which has more elongated heart-shaped leaves; Alnus glutinosa (Common Alder) which usually has a notched (emarginate) apex rather than a point.
Foraging Tips
Look along forest edges and old hedgerows. Hazelnuts ripen in late summer to autumn; they are best harvested when the leafy husks (involucres) turn brown and the nut easily detaches.
Toxicity Warning
Safe/Non-toxic. The nuts are a common food source, though individuals with nut allergies should exercise extreme caution.