Corylus avellana ‘Red Majestic’ (Red-Leaved Hazel) – A Unique Shrub with Stunning Burgundy Foliage and Edible Nuts
Corylus avellana ‘Red Majestic’, commonly known as the Red-Leaved Hazel, is a striking deciduous shrub that brings vibrant, burgundy-red foliage to the garden, creating a bold visual impact. In spring, this shrub produces small, yellow catkins, followed by the appearance of edible hazelnuts in late summer to early autumn. The striking red leaves turn more intense as the seasons progress, adding drama and interest throughout the year. Reaching a height of 2–3 meters (6.5–10 feet) with a similar spread, Corylus avellana ‘Red Majestic’ is perfect for adding both ornamental beauty and functionality to gardens. It thrives in a variety of conditions and is perfect for creating a focal point in borders, hedges, or as part of a wildlife-friendly garden.
Why Grow Corylus avellana ‘Red Majestic’ (Red-Leaved Hazel)?
Striking Burgundy Foliage – The rich red leaves create a bold contrast against other plants, providing vibrant colour throughout the growing season, especially in spring and summer.
Edible Hazelnuts – This variety of hazel produces delicious edible nuts in autumn, which are a treat for both humans and wildlife, making it a productive and attractive addition to your garden.
Hardy & Low-Maintenance – Corylus avellana ‘Red Majestic’ is a hardy shrub that requires minimal care, making it perfect for gardeners looking for beauty, functionality, and ease of maintenance.
Wildlife-Friendly – The catkins in early spring are an early food source for pollinators, and the hazelnuts attract a variety of birds and small mammals in autumn.
Compact & Versatile – Growing to a manageable size of 2–3 meters (6.5–10 feet), this shrub is ideal for smaller gardens or as a feature plant in larger landscapes.
Planting & Care Guide
Position – Prefers full sun to partial shade. Best planted in well-drained, moderately fertile soil, and is ideal for borders, hedges, or even as an accent shrub in the garden.
Soil – Thrives in slightly acidic to neutral, well-drained soil. This shrub is adaptable to a variety of soil types, as long as they aren’t overly wet.
Watering – Water regularly during dry spells to maintain consistent moisture, particularly when the shrub is establishing. Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant but will perform best with adequate moisture.
Maintenance:
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Pruning – Prune back any damaged or old growth in late winter or early spring to encourage healthy new growth and maintain its shape.
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Mulching – Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and protect the roots during winter.
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Harvesting – Hazelnuts can be harvested in late summer to autumn when they start to fall from the tree or when the husks begin to split.
Perfect Plant Combinations
Corylus avellana ‘Red Majestic’ pairs beautifully with other shrubs and plants that provide contrasting textures and colours. Combine with evergreens like Boxwood or Yew for a strong contrast of green against the rich red foliage. In the spring and summer, underplant with shade-loving perennials like Hostas, Astilbes, or Heucheras to create a layered effect. For a wildlife-friendly garden, pair with Ribes, Spiraea, or Cornus, offering additional interest through flowers, berries, and seasonal colour. This shrub’s striking appearance and the added bonus of edible nuts make it an excellent choice for both ornamental and functional gardens.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.
