General information: The common hazel is native to Europe and western Asia. It grows here in sparse deciduous forests, at the edge of woods or in hedges. It usually forms several trunks, which spread widely apart when old. The leaves are roundish, dark green and turn yellow to yellow-orange in the fall. In spring, the hazel flowers long before the leaves emerge, sometimes as early as January, in a delicate yellow. The yellow flowers are the male catkins. The fruits then ripen until September/October. Incidentally, hazelnuts were already important to humans in the Mesolithic period and are still intensively cultivated today in countries such as Turkey and Italy. However, the use of wood has become less important.
Care as a bonsai: The hazel develops very good branching through regular pruning. This produces a bonsai with a beautiful and natural crown almost by itself. However, the young branches are also quite flexible and can be shaped very well with wire. However, the wire should be removed in good time to prevent scars forming on the otherwise smooth bark. The hazel is robust, very vigorous and also has very good cane growth. It therefore tolerates radical pruning at the right time and can be rejuvenated very well. Overall, it offers many design options. Of course, it typically develops into a multiple trunk, but it also forms a good root base for a freely upright form. The hazel prefers moist, well nourished soil and a sunny but sheltered location. At around 6 years of age, the plant also feels mature as a bonsai and produces male and female flowers on the annual shoots. The male flowers hang decoratively from the plant as catkins and, with a bit of luck, the characteristic hazelnuts will develop on the female flowers.
