Common Names:
- Common Hazel
- European Hazel
Phonetic Spelling:
- KOR-ih-lus av-ell-AH-nah
Description:
- Appearance: Corylus avellana is a deciduous shrub or small tree that grows up to 8 meters (26 feet) tall. It has a rounded, bushy shape with multiple stems.
- Leaves: The leaves are broad, heart-shaped, and have serrated edges. They are bright green and turn yellow in autumn.
- Flowers: The plant produces catkins in late winter or early spring. Male catkins are long and drooping, while female flowers are small and inconspicuous.
- Fruits: The plant produces edible nuts encased in a hard shell, known as hazelnuts.
Distribution/Location:
- Geographic Range: Native to Europe and western Asia.
- Habitat: It thrives in temperate forests, hedgerows, and woodland edges.
Environmental Concerns:
- Conservation Status: Not endangered and widely cultivated.
- Conservation Efforts: Preservation of natural habitats, particularly in traditional hedgerows and woodlands.
Additional Notes:
- Ecological Importance: Hazel provides habitat and food for various wildlife, including birds, insects, and small mammals.
- Uses: Hazelnuts are commercially important for food, and the wood is used for fencing and weaving baskets.
- Landscape Use: Often used in hedgerows, wildlife gardens, and agroforestry due to its multiple uses.
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