Hasselbusken

Hasselbusken, scientifically known as Corylus avellana, is a deciduous shrub native to Europe and Western Asia. It is a common species found in woodlands, hedgerows, and on the edges of forests, often forming dense thickets. The plant is characterized by its broad, rounded leaves that turn yellow in autumn. In late winter or early spring, before the leaves appear, Hasselbusken produces catkins, which are long, cylindrical clusters of male flowers. These catkins release pollen that is carried by the wind to fertilize the small, inconspicuous female flowers.

The fruit of the Hasselbusken is the hazelnut, a small, edible nut enclosed in a leafy husk. Hazelnuts are a valuable food source for wildlife and have been cultivated by humans for centuries. The nuts ripen in late summer or early autumn and typically fall from the tree once mature. The wood of the Hasselbusken is flexible and has been used traditionally for various purposes, including making hurdles, baskets, and tool handles. The plant is known for its hardiness and adaptability, thriving in a range of soil types and climatic conditions. It plays an important role in its ecosystem, providing food and shelter for numerous animal species.