Turkish FIlbert

Turkish Filbert (Corylus colurna)

Turkish Filbert (Corylus colurna) is a stately deciduous tree known for its symmetrical pyramidal form, attractive bark, and exceptional tolerance to urban conditions. As the largest species in the hazelnut family, this species brings shade, structure, and ornamental value to parks, streetscapes, and large residential landscapes.

Distinctive Features

Corylus colurna features a strong central leader and evenly spaced horizontal branches that form a dense, pyramidal canopy. The dark green, ovate leaves have a coarsely serrated margin and turn a soft yellow in fall. In early spring, long golden catkins appear before the foliage emerges, offering subtle seasonal interest. Mature bark exfoliates in thin plates, revealing an ornamental mosaic of gray, orange, and brown tones. While it does produce edible nuts, they are smaller and less flavorful than cultivated hazelnuts and often enjoyed more by wildlife than by humans.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun
• Soil: Prefers deep, well-drained soil; tolerant of poor and compacted soils
• Water: Moderate; once established, it is drought tolerant
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4�7

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Bold, architectural form makes it ideal as a large landscape specimen
• Street Tree: Upright growth and pollution tolerance suit urban environments
• Shade Tree: Dense canopy provides reliable shade for large open spaces
• Wildlife Habitat: Nuts support birds and small mammals
• Park and Civic Landscapes: Ideal for broad lawns and public plantings

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water during extended dry spells until fully established
• Pruning: Minimal; maintain central leader and remove any crossing branches in youth
• Fertilizing: Apply a slow-release tree fertilizer in early spring if needed
• Mulching: Use mulch around the base to protect roots and retain moisture
• Protection: Tolerates urban stress, salt, and compacted soil once mature

Why Choose Turkish Filbert?

• Formal Structure: Naturally symmetrical form requires little shaping
• Urban Toughness: Thrives in heat, pollution, and compacted soils
• Ornamental Bark: Peeling texture adds visual interest in winter
• Wildlife Value: Supports native bird and mammal populations
• Focal Point: A commanding presence in parks, estates, and cityscapes

Corylus colurna combines strength, beauty, and resilience, making it a superb focal point and long-term investment for large-scale landscapes and urban plantings.