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Filbert (Corylus maxima)

Corylus maxima, commonly known as Filbert, is a large deciduous shrub or small tree cultivated for its edible nuts. It features attractive foliage and catkins.

Above information is sourced from Wikipedia

Sunlight

Prefers full sun to partial shade.

Watering

Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Ensure good drainage.

Soil

Well-drained, fertile loam. Tolerates a range of soil types but prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH.

Temperature

Thrives in temperate climates.

Habitat

Outdoor

Fertilizer

Feed in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.

Care Requirements

Light

Prefers full sun to partial shade.

At least 6 hours of direct sun is ideal for nut production.

Water

Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Ensure good drainage.

Maintain consistent soil moisture.

Soil

Well-drained, fertile loam. Tolerates a range of soil types but prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH.

Temperature

Thrives in temperate climates.

Ideal growing range is 15-25 °C.

Habitat

Outdoor

Fertilizer

Feed in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.

Supplement with compost annually.

Plant Overview

Plant Type

Shrub, Tree

Plant Category

Fruit, Ornamental

Plant Place Type

Ground, Garden

Plant Environment

Outdoor

Lifespan

Perennials

Plant Height

4-6 m

Spread

3-5 m

Growth Rate

Moderate

Dormancy

Deciduous, enters dormancy in winter

Leaf Color

Green

Leaf Type

Ovate to obovate, doubly serrated margins

Flower Size

1-2 cm

Image Gallery

Flowering & Fruiting Cycles

Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.

Northern hemisphere

Flowering & fruiting calendar

Peak bloom · FebPeak fruit · Sep
FloweringFruiting
02468JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecActivity intensityMonths59
Southern hemisphere

Flowering & fruiting calendar

Peak bloom · AugPeak fruit · Apr
FloweringFruiting
02468JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecActivity intensityMonths59
Synonyms
Corylus arborescens G.Gaertn., B.Mey. & Scherb.
Corylus atropurpurea Booth
Corylus balcana P.D.Sell
Corylus intermedia Fingerh.
Corylus rubra (Aiton) Borkh.
Taxonomy
  • kingdomPlantae
  • divisionTracheophyta
  • classMagnoliopsida
  • orderFagales
  • familyBetulaceae
  • genusCorylus
  • speciesCorylus maxima
Toxicity

Toxic for humans

No

Rating: 0/5

Toxic for pets

No

Rating: 0/5

Edible

Yes

The nuts are edible. Other parts of the plant are not considered toxic.

Additional Care Tips

Provide consistent moisture, especially when establishing and during fruit development. Avoid waterlogged conditions.

Prune in late winter to remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Thin out crowded stems to improve air circulation and fruit production.

Easily propagated by suckers or layering. Seed propagation is possible but often results in variable nut quality.

Not typically repotted as it is a large shrub or tree. For container-grown specimens, repot every 2-3 years into a larger container with fresh soil.

FAQs

When is the best time to harvest filberts?

Filbert nuts are typically ready for harvest in autumn, usually from September to October, when they begin to fall from the tree.

How much sun does Corylus maxima need?

Corylus maxima thrives in full sun to partial shade, but requires at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal nut production.

What kind of soil is best for filberts?

Filberts prefer well-drained, fertile loam with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot.

Are filberts self-pollinating?

No, Corylus maxima is not self-pollinating. Planting at least two different varieties nearby is recommended for good nut set.

How do I prune my filbert tree?

Prune in late winter while dormant. Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches, and thin out crowded stems to improve air circulation and light penetration.