Corylus avellana Red Majestic is a compact, spreading to semi-weeping contorted hazel bred by Rolf de Vries in Bad Zwischenahn, Germany. Twisting zigzag stems support rich dark burgundy leaves through spring and summer.
Grow it in full sun or partial shade in neutral to alkaline, well-drained soil. Full sun gives the strongest leaf color. The spreading, semi-weeping crown matures slowly, and its sculptural bare framework provides winter interest.
Purplish-pink catkins appear in late winter. Remove any straight non-contorted shoots that spoil the distinctive outline. Hazel pollen can cause respiratory allergy, and any nuts produced can be hazardous to people with hazelnut allergy.
