Spicebush vs European Hazelnut

The Spicebush is an unique ornamental shrub that blooms with vibrant yellow flowers and bright green foliage. The foliage goes from green to yellow in the autumn, adding fall interest to your garden.The plant is dioecious, meaning that you will need male and female plants in order to harvest it’s red berries. Berries are only produced on female plants. The berries themselves aren’t that sweet, and are mostly enjoyed by birds and other wildlife.

The Spicebush, also commonly known as Common Spicebush, Northern Spicebush, Wild Allspice, and Benjamin Bush, is named after its distinctive spicy-sweet fragrance that comes from the flowers.

European Hazelnut is a large shrub that is native to Europe. It is known for its edible nuts that ripen in late summer to early fall. The nuts can be eaten raw or roasted and have a sweet, earthy flavour. Nut production can start as early as 2-3 years but typically takes until at least 4 years for significant yields.

Catkins appear in late winter to early spring and as they release pollen it attracts bees and other pollinators. Since male and female flowers bloom at different times, multiple shrubs will have to be planted for cross pollination. It is recommended to plant European Hazelnut with other hazelnut varieties such as Beaked Hazelnut, Frank, Yamhill, and York. Planting with other varieties will increase nut production.

Note: This species is currently unavailable. Grow your own using European Hazelnut seeds at SeedTime.ca.

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