Corylus maxima - Purple-leaved filbert

Corylus maxima, often known as purple-leaved filbert, belongs to the family of birch plants (Betulaceae). The species originally comes from Southeast Europe and Asia Minor and is closely related to the common hazel (Corylus avellana) widespread in Europe. Corylus maxima is primarily cultivated because of its edible nuts and has become more important both as a crop and ornamental plant design.

Morphology and appearance

Corylus maxima is a multi -stamped, deciduous shrub, which can reach a height of 4 to 6 meters and stands out due to an expansive, dense branching. The bark is gray -brown and, unlike older hazel species, remains smooth and not tearing. The purple-leaved filbert nut has characteristic, large leaves that are 10 to 12 cm long and have an oval shape with a slightly heart -shaped leaf ground. The leaf surface is matt and slightly hairy, while the leaves are serrated.

In spring before the leaves drive out, the plant forms its inflorescences. The male flowers are arranged in long, yellow kittens that can hang down and reach a length of about 6 to 10 cm. The female flowers are much smaller and more inconspicuous; They only consist of small buds with red scars. The pollination takes place via the wind.

The nuts of the purple-leaved filbert nut are the main feature of the plant. They are larger than that of the ordinary hazel and are locked in a particularly long, tubular fruit cup (Involucrum), which almost completely envelops the nut and protects them well. The nuts themselves are about 1.5 to 2 cm long and have a hard shell and a nutty, sweet taste. The harvest will take place in late summer until autumn when the nuts are mature.

Distribution and habitat

Corylus maxima originally comes from southeastern Europe and Asia Minor and is now widespread in many parts of Europe and also in other moderate regions, especially where it is cultivated. It prefers mild climate zones and grows in damp but well -drained soils. In the great outdoors you can find the plant in light forests and on forest edges. The purple-leaved filbert nut can be found particularly in Mediterranean and sub -Mediterranean climate zones, where it has adapted to the mild winter and drier summer.

In cultivated stocks, Corylus maxima is often grown for her large and tasty nuts. The species has proven to be particularly resistant to various environmental conditions and can thrive at locations with full sun to partial shade.

Meaning and use

The purple-leaved filbert is primarily of economic importance because of its nuts. The nuts are rich in fats, proteins and minerals and are consumed both raw and roasted. You are used in the food industry, for example in chocolate products, as an ingredient in baked goods or for the production of nut oils. The nuts of the purple-leaved filbert are considered particularly valuable due to their sweet taste and size.

In addition to her culinary importance, Corylus maxima also has a permanent place in landscape design. Due to its dense growth shape, the plant is well suited as a hedge plant or to green garden areas. A particularly popular decorative shape is the Corylus maxima ‘Purpurea’ variety, which is striked by its deep red dyed leaves and is planted as an eye -catcher in many gardens.

Ecological meaning

Corylus maxima is also valuable from an ecological point of view. The plant offers habitat and food for different animal species. The flower kittens are an early source of food for bees and other pollinators in spring. The nuts are an important source of food in autumn and winter for many animal species, especially squirrels, mice and birds. In addition, the shrub contributes to the ground stabilization and, thanks to its dense rooting, promotes the prevention of soil erosion.

Cultivation and care

The purple-leaved filbert is an easy -care plant that places little demands on the floor as long as it is well permeable. The plant prefers sunny to partially shaded locations and is relatively resistant to diseases and pests. A regular pruning can help to maintain the shape of the plant and promote growth, especially if the plant is used as a hedge.

The propagation usually takes place via seeds or by cuttings. When cultivating in gardens, refinement is often used to promote certain decorative or fruit properties. Winter protection may be necessary, especially in colder regions, since young plants can be sensitive to frost.