Bare Root Trees ~ Hazel
Details:
The Hazel tree is a decorative multi-stemmed tree with shiny green leaves in spring and distinctive yellow catkins late into winter. In autumn it produces rich, edible nuts, loved by both wildlife and people. The Hazel is one of the most useful and wildlife-friendly trees, offering elegance, food, and shelter throughout the seasons, whilst continuing a tradition in folklore, craft, and woodland management.
 Attracts | Birds, Wildlife |
|---|---|
 Blossom Colour | Yellow |
 Flowering Period | Feb, Mar |
 Habit (Shape) | Broad, Hedging |
 Hardiness | Hardy (Cold winter) |
 Height (when grown) | 7-12m |
 Lighting | Full Sun |
 Leaf Colour | Green |
 Soil Type | Chalky / Alkaline, Most soils, Well-drained |
 Position | Exposed, Sheltered |
Description
The Hazel tree is one of the most familiar trees in the countryside, often forming part of hedgerows. It also can grow up to around 12 metres tall if grown as a tree. It is one of the first trees to come back to life annually, producing its golden catkins, or “lamb’s tails,” as early as January. These provide crucial pollen for bees when little else is flowering. In spring bright green heart-shaped leaves unfold, before maturing into a lovely summer cover.
Hazels is well known for its autumn crop of hazelnuts. These ripen in September and are a valuable food source for dormice, squirrels, nuthatches, and other birds and mammals. For centuries, hazel has also been coppiced, a process that encourages fresh shoots while providing strong, flexible poles traditionally used for fencing, wattle, and hurdles. It is a favourite for hedging and garden planting therefore. It thrives in well-drained, fertile soils in both sun and partial shade.
Beyond its practical uses, the Hazel tree is steeped in myth and magic. It is regarded as a “Tree of Knowledge” in Celtic tradition and believed to offer protection and wisdom.
Combining beauty, utility, and wildlife value, hazel is one of the most versatile and rewarding trees to grow.
Special features: Self-fertile, early flowering catkins, delicious nuts & beneficial to wildlife
Birthday Tree: 5th August – 1st September
Symbolism, Folklore & Old Wives Tales
Celtic Tree of Wisdom, Communication, Reconciliation & Peace, Emblem of St. Philbert
Gender: Masculine Planet: Sun Element: Air Deities: Mercury, Thor, Artemis/Diana
Powers: Luck, Fertility, Protection, and Wishes
Hazel wood can be used to make Magical Wands!
