Corylus avellana Zellernuss is a fast-growing, arching hazel that matures into a large shrub or small tree about 8 to 13 feet tall and wide. New leaves open reddish brown before becoming brownish green, while red-brown catkins brighten bare branches before the edible nuts develop.
Plant it in full sun or partial shade in neutral to alkaline, moist but well-drained soil. It tolerates ordinary garden soil and some dryness once established.
Harvest the brown nuts from their dark-purple husks in early fall. Remove unwanted suckers and thin older crowded stems during dormancy. Hazel pollen and nuts can cause allergic reactions in sensitive people.
