Turkish Hazel
Corylus colurna · Deciduous Broadleaf Hardwood
Plant Family
Betulaceae
Tree Category
Shade Tree, Ornamental, Nut Tree, Street Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Standard species type (Corylus colurna)
Hardiness Zones
Thrives in USDA Hardiness Zones 4 through 8, demonstrating strong adaptability to urban pollutants, compacted soils, and varying climate conditions.
About This Tree
A medium-sized, highly symmetrical deciduous tree with a dense, broadly pyramidal to conical crown that tends to become more rounded with advanced age. It features an upright, sturdy trunk, neat branching, and distinct spiky clustered fruits that hang conspicuously among the foliage.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, alternate, broadly ovate to obovate leaves measuring 3 to 6 inches long, with doubly serrated margins, a pointed tip, and a slightly heart-shaped base. They emerge medium green in spring and turn a modest yellow-green to yellow in autumn.
Bark Characteristics
Distinctive grayish-brown, deeply corky, and furrowed bark that becomes strikingly scaly and flaky with age, offering high winter interest and fire resistance.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Southeastern Europe and Southwest Asia, including the Balkans, Turkey, northern Iraq, and the Caucasus
Growing Season
Spring leaf-out followed by catkin blooms, nut development through summer, ripening in autumn, and leaf drop before winter dormancy
Sunlight & Water Needs
Prefers full sun for optimal growth and fruit production, though it tolerates partial shade. Requires moderate watering when young to establish root systems, but exhibits very good drought tolerance once established.
Mature Size
Typically reaches a mature height of 40 to 60 feet with a spread of 25 to 40 feet, growing at a slow to moderate rate with a long lifespan.
Special Characteristics
Exceptional resistance to drought, urban pollution, and soil compaction. Produces edible hazelnuts encased in heavily husked, spiky clusters, and features attractive corky bark.
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides crucial food sources in the form of nuts for squirrels, jays, and various small mammals, while its dense branching structure offers excellent nesting sites and protective cover for birds.