Overview
Corylus colurna L. var. chinensis (Franchet) Burkill, commonly known as the Chinese Filbert, is a large deciduous tree belonging to the Betulaceae family. It is native to northern China, Korea, and Japan, and has a long history of cultivation in the region.
Appearance
The tree can grow up to 20-25 meters tall and has a broad, spreading crown. The bark is grayish-brown and smooth, with scattered lenticels. The leaves are alternate, oval-shaped, and have a finely serrated edge. The male and female flowers are produced on separate trees in early spring and are conspicuous and attractive. The fruit is a round or oval nut enclosed in a leafy bract, which forms a "husk." These nuts are edible and prized for their flavor.
Common Names
The tree has several common names in Chinese, including ??? (q? yè zh?) and ??? (j?n guì shù). In English, it is commonly called the Chinese Filbert, though it is sometimes referred to as the Chinese Hazel or Chinese Cobnut.
Uses
The nuts of the Chinese Filbert have long been used as a food source in China, where they are often roasted and eaten as a snack. They can also be ground into a paste and used to flavor dishes such as soups and stews. Additionally, the wood of the tree is prized for its durability and is used in construction, carpentry, and furniture-making. The tree is also commonly planted as an ornamental in parks and gardens due to its attractive flowers and foliage.
Light Requirements
Corylus colurna L. var. chinensis (Franchet) Burkill requires full sunlight to thrive. It is a deciduous tree that grows well in areas with high light intensity, particularly during the spring and summer growing seasons.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the growth of Corylus colurna L. var. chinensis (Franchet) Burkill is between 21 and 27°C (70 and 80°F). It can tolerate temperatures as low as -30°C (-22°F) during the winter dormant season. However, prolonged exposure to temperatures below -18°C (0°F) may damage the plant.
Soil Requirements
Corylus colurna L. var. chinensis (Franchet) Burkill prefers deep, well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, including loam, clay, sand, and gravel. However, it does not tolerate waterlogged or poorly drained soil. The optimal soil pH range for this plant is between 6.0 and 7.5.
Cultivation methods:
Corylus colurna L. var. chinensis (Franchet) Burkill, commonly known as Chinese filbert, is a deciduous tree native to China. It grows well in temperate regions with full sun exposure and fertile, well-drained soil. Plant the tree in a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball. Make sure the top of the root ball is at the same level as the surrounding soil. Mulch at the base of the tree to suppress weeds and retain moisture.
Watering needs:
The Chinese filbert tree requires regular watering to establish and grow. Water the tree deeply once a week during dry periods, providing enough water to soak the soil to a depth of at least 6 inches. Reduce watering in the cooler months when the tree is dormant, avoiding overwatering.
Fertilization:
Chinese filbert trees benefit from fertilization in early spring before new growth appears. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at the base of the tree, following the manufacturer's instructions for the proper dosage. Avoid applying fertilizers close to the trunk, as they may injure the tree.
Pruning:
Pruning is essential for the healthy growth and structure of the Chinese filbert tree. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased wood, cutting back to healthy tissue. Thin out any crowded or crossing branches, focusing on removing the weakest ones. Shape the tree by cutting back the longest branches to a bud or side branch, encouraging a more compact form.
Propagation of Corylus colurna L. var. chinensis (Franchet) Burkill
Corylus colurna L. var. chinensis (Franchet) Burkill is commonly known as the Chinese filbert or Chinese hazelnut. This plant is a deciduous tree commonly found in China.
There are several methods of propagating Corylus colurna L. var. chinensis (Franchet) Burkill, including:
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Corylus colurna L. var. chinensis (Franchet) Burkill can be easily done from seeds. The seeds are collected from the mother plant in autumn and sown in spring. It is best to soak the seeds in warm water for 24 hours before sowing to enhance germination. The seeds should be sown 1-2 inches deep in a well-draining soil mix. The seeds will germinate within 6-12 weeks.
Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings of Corylus colurna L. var. chinensis (Franchet) Burkill can be rooted to propagate new plants. Hardwood cuttings are taken in late autumn when the tree is dormant. The cuttings should be taken from the previous year's growth and should be 6-8 inches in length. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted 2-3 inches deep in a potting mix consisting of peat moss and vermiculite. The cuttings will take several months to root, and should be kept in a moist environment.
Air-Layering Propagation
Air-layering can also be used to propagate Corylus colurna L. var. chinensis (Franchet) Burkill. This method involves stripping a small 1-inch section of bark from a healthy branch of the tree. The exposed area is then covered in a rooting hormone and wrapped in a moist sphagnum moss. The moss-covered area is then wrapped in plastic wrap to keep it moist, and left on the tree for several months. Once the roots have formed, the new plant can be cut from the mother plant and transplanted.
Propagation of Corylus colurna L. var. chinensis (Franchet) Burkill is relatively easy and can be done using various methods. It is important to provide the right environment for the new plants to grow, including proper soil, drainage, and optimal light and temperature conditions.
Common Diseases and Pests Affecting Corylus Colurna L. Var. Chinensis
Corylus colurna L. var. chinensis (Franchet) Burkill, also known as Chinese hazel, is generally a hardy tree that is resistant to many diseases and pests. However, there are still a few diseases and pests that can affect its growth and productivity.
Diseases
Bacterial Blight: This is a bacterial disease that typically affects young shoots, leaves, and nuts. Symptoms include wilting, yellowing, and necrosis of leaves. Infected nuts have brown spots and may crack on the surface. To manage this disease, remove all infected plant parts and destroy them. Additionally, avoid overhead watering, and apply copper-based fungicides to help control the spread of the bacteria.
Chestnut Blight: This is a fungal disease that can kill entire trees. The disease is characterized by the formation of cankers on the bark, which eventually girdle the trunk. The best way to manage chestnut blight is to remove infected trees and protect healthy ones by keeping wounds on trees as small as possible. Additionally, apply fungicides that contain chlorothalonil or benzimidazole to the bark after pruning or wounding.
Pests
Hazelnut Weevil: This is a major pest of hazelnuts that can also affect Chinese hazel. The weevil feeds on nuts, resulting in reduced yield, and the spread of fungal diseases. To manage this pest, use pheromone traps to monitor populations, maintain good hygiene around the tree, and spray insecticides that contain pyrethrins or neonicotinoids.
Mites: These pests can cause discoloration and deformation of leaves, affecting the tree’s growth and productivity. Mites can be controlled through the application of insecticidal soaps and horticultural oils, which suffocate and dehydrate them. Additionally, release predatory mites to help manage mite infestations.
