Corylus americana 'Purpleleaf Bailey Select' #2

Get ready for a delightful experience! The Purpleleaf Bailey Select American Hazelnut (Corylus americana 'Purpleleaf Bailey Select') is sure to captivate you with its delectable edible nuts and stunning ornamental presence.

This tall shrub isn't just a valuable addition to your edible garden; it serves multiple purposes in your yard or garden space, stealing the spotlight and captivating the attention of your visitors.

Ideal for those who appreciate plants that offer versatility, the Purpleleaf Bailey Select American Hazelnut brings bold merlot tones to your landscape while yielding mouthwatering hazelnuts.

True to its name, this Hazelnut features magnificent burgundy new growth foliage that gradually transitions to green with wine-colored undertones. Its broad heart-shaped leaves with finely incised edges and striking vein patterns add to its allure. As autumn approaches, these scalloped leaves take on an attractive bronze hue. In addition to its captivating foliage, this shrub produces lovely purple catkins, adding to its ornamental charm.

But what about the hazelnuts themselves? They're just as impressive as the shrub's appearance. Growing in clusters of two to four, these edible nuts mature in time for fall roasting. Since the Purpleleaf Hazelnut doesn't grow taller than what you can reach with a step ladder, harvesting ripe hazelnuts is a breeze.

Harvesting typically occurs from September to October in most zones. To protect your bounty from underground pests, laying down landscaping fabric or mowing around the shrub is recommended. To check for pest damage, float harvested hazelnuts in water; discard any that float. After drying for a few weeks in a warm area or using a food dehydrator, hazelnuts can be stored for months.

Prepare your hazelnuts for roasting during the holidays or create your own hazelnut spread. Whether in freshly baked cookies or as a key ingredient in pesto, impress your loved ones with homegrown hazelnuts.

Grows 8' tall and wide in full sun to part shade and is hardy to Zone 4.