CORYLUS avellana ‘Red Majestic’ (red corkscrew hazel)

The CORYLUS avellana ‘Red Majestic’ (red corkscrew hazel) stands out as a multi-faceted star. Very early in spring, it begins its show with its huge, pendulous creamy yellow catkins. Then it develops its slightly twitchy deep red leaves. In fall, squirrels will delight in its hazelnuts. Finally, it is in winter when the leaves have fallen that we discover its branches, which grow in a very twisted way. These branches lend themselves perfectly to the creation of bouquets for your interior decoration. In short, this shrub is interesting all year round.

How to grow CORYLUS avellana ‘Red Majestic’ (red corkscrew hazel)

CORYLUS avellana ‘Red Majestic’ (red corkscrew hazel) needs a place in full sun so that its foliage can turn deep red. It can be in a hedge, a container or a bed. It will be happy with any type of soil as well as any type of pH. Furthermore, it does not fear frost either, since it supports temperatures even below −20 °C. As already mentioned above, it can be pruned at will. This allows you to limit it in its scope, if really necessary.
You will have understood that it is intended for beginner gardeners, but also for experienced gardeners or collectors.

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History and Origin

The type species CORYLUS avellana is native to Europe and West Asia.

First, its wood was used in half-timbered construction or for pasture fences.

Then, hazelnuts are obviously a source of food for humans as well as animals (squirrels, birds…). It is less well known that the leaves are also food for animals, including lepidoptera (lepidopteria). CORYLUS avellana is the most popular species in commercial hazelnut production.

Finally, hazelnuts are rich in protein and unsaturated fat. They also contain significant amounts of manganese, copper, vitamin E, magnesium and even thiamine (vitamin B1).