Purpleleaf Bailey Select Amer. Hazelnut

Purpleleaf Bailey Select American Hazelnut (Corylus americana 'Purpleleaf Bailey Select')

Purpleleaf Bailey Select American Hazelnut (Corylus americana 'Purpleleaf Bailey Select') is a striking native shrub known for its bold purple foliage and valuable wildlife benefits. This improved cultivar of the American hazelnut combines ornamental appeal with durability, producing edible nuts while thriving in a range of landscape settings.

Distinctive Features

This selection stands out with rich burgundy-purple foliage that holds color well through summer, contrasting beautifully with green surroundings. In late winter, dangling catkins emerge, offering early interest before foliage appears. In fall, the purple leaves take on copper and orange tones. If properly pollinated, the plant produces edible hazelnuts encased in fringed husks. Its upright, suckering habit reaches 10 to 15 feet tall and wide, forming a dense thicket perfect for naturalized areas or hedging.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Adaptable to various well-drained soils, including loam, clay, and sand
• Water: Moderate; benefits from consistent moisture but tolerates some drought
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4�8

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Deep purple foliage and seasonal nut production make it a visual and functional centerpiece
• Edible Landscapes: Nut-bearing native adds beauty and productivity to garden designs
• Naturalized Plantings: Perfect for wildlife gardens, shelterbelts, and restoration zones
• Privacy Screening: Dense growth offers seasonal cover and natural privacy
• Pollinator Support: Early-season catkins provide pollen for native insects

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water regularly while establishing; becomes drought tolerant over time
• Pruning: Thin or shape in late winter if needed; allow suckers for natural thicket or remove to contain spread
• Fertilizing: Rarely necessary; use a balanced fertilizer in spring if desired
• Mulching: Apply mulch to suppress weeds and retain soil moisture
• Protection: Edible nuts may attract wildlife; protect young plants if browsing pressure is high

Why Choose Purpleleaf Bailey Select American Hazelnut?

• Unique Purple Foliage: Adds unexpected color contrast to native plantings
• Edible Nuts: Supports both people and wildlife with seasonal harvest
• Native Durability: Cold-hardy, adaptable, and beneficial to local ecosystems
• Multi-Purpose Form: Works as a screen, specimen, or wildlife hedge
• Focal Point: Combines rich color and ecological function in one native plant

Corylus americana 'Purpleleaf Bailey Select' delivers ornamental foliage, habitat value, and nut production in one compact, low-maintenance package�ideal for gardeners seeking a bold native focal point with lasting impact.