Corylus maxima

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

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

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

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

Cultural Significance

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

• Corylus avellana
• Corylus americana
• Corylus cornuta

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