Troubleshooting
Hazel 'Red Filbert' problems — and how to fix them
Hazel 'Red Filbert' (Corylus avellana 'Purpurea') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Suckering spread
It suckers freely from the base and can spread; remove unwanted suckers to keep it within bounds.
Modest nut yield
'Purpurea' is grown mainly for foliage and does not fruit abundantly; expect lighter crops than dedicated cobnut cultivars.
Squirrel and weevil damage
Squirrels strip nuts before ripening and nut weevil can infest kernels, reducing the usable crop.
Colour fade in shade
In too much shade the purple leaves turn green by summer; site in full sun to keep the colour.
Prevent hazel 'red filbert' problems before they start
Most hazel 'red filbert' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for hazel 'red filbert' in general rather than its problems? Read the full hazel 'red filbert' care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Hazel 'Red Filbert' problems — FAQ
Why is my hazel 'red filbert' suckering spread?
It suckers freely from the base and can spread; remove unwanted suckers to keep it within bounds.
Why is my hazel 'red filbert' modest nut yield?
'Purpurea' is grown mainly for foliage and does not fruit abundantly; expect lighter crops than dedicated cobnut cultivars.
Why is my hazel 'red filbert' squirrel and weevil damage?
Squirrels strip nuts before ripening and nut weevil can infest kernels, reducing the usable crop.
Why is my hazel 'red filbert' colour fade in shade?
In too much shade the purple leaves turn green by summer; site in full sun to keep the colour.