Hazel
Corylus avellana 路 Betulaceae 路 also Common hazel, Cobnut
A multi-stemmed small tree or large shrub to about 8 m (occasionally 12 m) with yellow catkins in late winter and edible nuts in autumn. Hazel is the classic coppice plant of British woodland and a staple of hedgerows, giving pea sticks, bean poles and hurdles while feeding dormice, woodpeckers and jays. Coppiced plants can live for several hundred years.
Broadleaf, drops leavesMedium growthSun or part shadeModerate water
Where it stands
Care
Plant bare-root whips in winter; it needs little aftercare beyond weed control and protection from deer and rabbits. Coppice every 7 to 10 years in winter if you want rods and a dense understorey. Few serious pests; squirrels take most nuts before they ripen.
Benefits
WildlifeEdiblePollinatorsBirdsFits small spacesLong lived
Good for
HedgerowSmall yardFoodScreeningReforestation