Turkish Hazel
Corylus colurnafam. Fagaceae
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Pl. EEA8 — Corylus colurna
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IOverview
Overview
Turkish Hazel (Corylus colurna) is a tree native to regions including Albania, Bulgaria, Greece, Iran, and Turkey. It thrives in full sun to partial shade with moist soil that can be light, medium, or heavy clay. This hardy plant grows up to 25 meters tall and is known for its edible seeds, which are part of the diet in its native range. Its adaptability to various soil types makes it a valuable addition to gardens and landscapes. One distinctive feature of Turkish Hazel is its ornamental value, with catkins that appear early in spring before leaves emerge, adding an aesthetic appeal to the landscape.
Quick answers
What is Turkish Hazel?
Turkish Hazel (Corylus colurna) is a tree native to regions including Albania, Bulgaria, Greece, Iran, and Turkey. It thrives in full sun to partial shade with moist soil that can be light, medium, or heavy clay.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Turkish Hazel thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 4-7, making it suitable for temperate regions. This tree grows up to 25 meters tall and requires regular watering to maintain its health. For propagation, seeds are the preferred method. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-7
Habit
Tree
Mature size
25.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Turkish Hazel for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Turkish Hazel in a sunny spot and follow these steps for success.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Turkish Hazel tree, well-draining soil, and a watering can or hose.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in early fall before winter sets in.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining with medium texture. Amend heavy clay soil with sand if needed.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant a young tree from a nursery pot into your garden bed, ensuring it has enough space to grow.
- 5
First two weeks
Water the newly planted tree regularly and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun exposure and occasional watering during dry spells. Prune lightly in late winter or early spring to shape the tree.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune the tree annually in late winter to maintain its shape and health.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil without amending, neglecting regular pruning, and not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Seed
Edible uses: Oil
Other uses:oilLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
10 native · 4 introduced
Distribution
10 native · 4 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 10 native· 4 introduced
Europe8 regions
native (5)AlbaniaBulgariaGreeceRomaniaRussia
introduced (3)HungaryPolandSpain
Asia2 regions
native (2)IranTurkey
Broader regions
native:Turkey-in-Europe, Transcaucasus, Yugoslavia
introduced:Czechoslovakia
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Fagaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Fagaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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