Contents
Description
Corylus Heterophylla, commonly known as the Chinese Hazel, is a deciduous shrub that is native to China and Korea. It belongs to the Betulaceae family, which also includes birch and alder trees. The Chinese Hazel can grow up to a height of 6-8 meters and has a spread of 4-6 meters. It is known for its attractive foliage, which can range from green to purple.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fagales |
| Family | Betulaceae |
| Genus | Corylus |
| Species | Heterophylla |
Appearance
The Chinese Hazel has a rounded, spreading growth habit and can form dense thickets. The leaves are deciduous, alternate, and simple, with serrated edges. They are usually 8-12 cm long and can be green or purple, depending on the cultivar. The flowers are catkins, which appear in early spring before the leaves. The nutlets are enclosed in a husk, which splits open when ripe. The nuts are edible and are often used in cooking.
Care Guide
Water: The Chinese Hazel prefers moist soil, but it can tolerate some drought once established. It is important to water the plant regularly during the first few years after planting.Fertilization: The Chinese Hazel does not require much fertilizer, but it can benefit from a slow-release fertilizer applied in early spring.Soil: The Chinese Hazel prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but it does not do well in heavy clay soil.Sunlight: The Chinese Hazel prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it will not flower as well in low light conditions.Hardiness Zones: The Chinese Hazel is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Chinese Hazel is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as leaf blight and canker. It is important to keep the plant well-ventilated and to avoid overhead watering to prevent these diseases. The plant can also be attacked by aphids, mites, and scale insects, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Habitat
The Chinese Hazel is native to China and Korea, where it grows in mountainous areas and along streams. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate cold winters and hot summers.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the best time to plant Chinese Hazel?
A: The best time to plant Chinese Hazel is in early spring or fall when the weather is cool and moist.Q: How often should I water Chinese Hazel?
A: Chinese Hazel should be watered regularly during the first few years after planting. After that, it can tolerate some drought, but it prefers moist soil.Q: Can I grow Chinese Hazel in a container?
A: Yes, Chinese Hazel can be grown in a container, but it will need to be repotted every few years as it grows.Q: Are the nuts of Chinese Hazel edible?
A: Yes, the nuts of Chinese Hazel are edible and are often used in cooking.
Related Plants
- Corylus Avellana
- Corylus Americana
- Corylus Cornuta
- Corylus Colurna
References
- “Corylus Heterophylla.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 15 June 2021. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287784.
- “Corylus Heterophylla.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed 15 June 2021. www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:295945-1.
- “Chinese Hazel (Corylus Heterophylla).” RHS Gardening. Accessed 15 June 2021. www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/57914/Corylus-heterophylla/Details.
