Turkish Hazel tree identification
The Turkish Hazel Corylus colurna, native to South-East Europe, Turkey and Iran was was introduced to Britain in 1582. It is an attractive tree, with a straight trunk. It is the largest species of Hazel and can reach a height of 20m. It has been widely planted in city streets, where it thrives. It is tolerant of urban air pollution. Its buds, catkins and nuts are similar to the Common Hazel but its fruit looks quite different because the nut sits in a cup that has long prickles. The nut is edible but it is hard and small and of no commercial value. For more information on the Common Hazel click HERE
Turkish Hazel tree identification – heart-shaped, crumpled leaves, cracked bark, male catkins in January, fruit with long prickles
Male catkins open to release pollen. Photo taken at the end of January. Female flowers are inconspicuous but similar to those of the Common Hazel
Fruit in July. The nuts sit in an involucre of leafy bracts which has long soft prickles extending from it.
Fruit in January. The involucre has turned dark brown and the nuts still sit within it.
The involucre, with its nuts, may stay on the tree all winter, making it very conspicuous.
The buds are flattened
Tree inJanuary