Hazelnut

17th November 2023

Her chariot is an empty hazelnut

Made by the joiner squirrel or old grub,

Time out o’ mind the fairies’ coachmakers.

And in this state she gallops night by night

Through lovers’ brains, and then they dream of love

MERCUTIO: Romeo & Juliet, Act 1, Scene 4

Hazel (Corylus avellana)

Hazelnuts have been a valued food resource from the first human colonisation of Britain. Hazel is a pioneer species preferring open woodland or the woodland edge. Hazel is also coppiced to provide hazel rods for many purposes. Hazel is a common woodland species throughout the British Isles. Hazel catkins are often one of the first signs of new life at the end of winter.

More Information

Woodland Trust Tree Guides: Hazel