Hazel (corylus avellana)

Hazel is a vital part of our native woodland. Its nuts are an important food source for birds, squirrels and mice, in particular the hazel dormice as depicted in the Gruffalo story by Julia Donaldson.

Hazel is often coppiced but can grow to 12m tall. People often used the coppiced, flexible branches for weaving and fencing.

In summer it can be identified by its round, serrated, soft leaves, and in winter by its nuts and catkins. 

Like other trees, it has both male and female flowers, although in this case the female flowers must be pollinated with pollen from another tree. Male catkins are often seen as a sign that spring is on its way.