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Turkish hazelnut

Scientific Name: Corylus colurna

Family: Betulaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth:

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Corylus colurna: The Turkish Hazel

Corylus colurna, commonly known as Turkish hazel or Turkish filbert, is a deciduous tree prized for its ornamental value and hazelnut production.

Considerations for Pets

  • This tree produces hazelnuts, which, while edible for humans, may pose a choking hazard or digestive upset for some pets if consumed in large quantities.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

  • Scientific Name: Corylus colurna
  • Common Names: Turkish hazel, Turkish filbert
  • Family: Betulaceae (Birch family)

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to southeast Europe and southwest Asia, spanning from the Balkans through northern Turkey.
  • Also found in the Eastern Mediterranean region.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • The Turkish hazel is the largest species of hazel, growing to well over 20 meters (approximately 65 feet).
  • Can reach heights of 40-50 feet, and less frequently up to 80 feet.
  • Features a stout, long trunk and branches that form a pyramidal or wide conical shape.
  • It is a slow-growing, medium-sized tree.
  • Catkins (male flowers) appear before the leaves emerge in spring.
  • The leaves are described as ovoid and cordate (heart-shaped).

Ecological Role

  • Turkish hazel is tolerant of heat, drought and cold, so is an excellent hardy tree for lawns, street plantings, and urban conditions. Its heavy-textured, dark green foliage is free of insect and disease.

Economic Significance

  • Hazelnuts are produced commercially in several countries, with Turkey being the world's largest producer, accounting for over 70% of global production.
  • Other significant production regions include Italy, Azerbaijan, Spain, USA, Greece, Cyprus, Georgia, and Serbia.
  • The hazelnut industry is a major economic driver in Turkey, with substantial export revenue.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • The big bud mite and the hazelnut weevil are mentioned as harmful pests that affect the yield and quality of Turkish hazelnuts.
  • Powdery mildew can affect hazelnut crops.

Resources and Further Information

  • RHS (Royal Horticultural Society): Provides information on Corylus colurna.
  • Turkish Hazelnut Promotion Group: Serves as a resource for education and R&D support within the food industry.
  • Connon Nurseries CBV (Hamilton Burlington Waterdown Dundas Oakville Ontario ON)