Hazel (Corylus avellana)

Hazel are wildlife friendly compact trees with dense foliage and a hazelnut crop.

An excellent tree for supporting biodiversity, Hazel is known to support over 250 insect species plus birds and small mammals.

Early spring brings catkins, resembling lambs tails, followed by hazelnuts in late summer.  Features smooth, grey-brown, bark and soft hairy leaves.

Hazel prefers moist but not waterlogged soils and an open spot rather than too much shade.  Responds well to being cut back, allowing height to be controlled and can be coppiced.

Legend has it that Hazel is as a magical tree that provides protection.

Compact bushy tree growing to a maximum height of 10m but can be pruned back hard to control height.