Corylus maxima

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Corylus maxima, also known as the Filbert or European Filbert, is a species of hazelnut native to southeastern Europe and southwestern Asia. It is a deciduous shrub typically growing to 3–4 m tall, with broad leaves 6–15 cm long. The flowers are produced very early in spring, before the leaves, and are monoecious with single-sex wind-pollinated catkins.

Description[edit | edit source]

The Corylus maxima produces nuts that are larger and longer than those of the common hazelnut. The nut is surrounded by a husk which entirely covers the nut. The husk is also tubular in shape and is rough in texture. The nut itself is enclosed in a hard shell, which is typically round to oval in shape.

Cultivation[edit | edit source]

Corylus maxima is cultivated for its nuts, which are harvested in the late summer and early autumn. The nuts are used in a variety of culinary applications, including baking and as a topping for desserts. They are also eaten raw or roasted.

Varieties[edit | edit source]

There are several varieties of Corylus maxima, including 'Purpurea', which has purple leaves, and 'Pendula', which has weeping branches.

Cultural Significance[edit | edit source]

In some cultures, the Corylus maxima is associated with wisdom and learning. In ancient Rome, the filbert was considered a symbol of wisdom and the nut was used in divination rituals.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD