Evergreen hazel is a type of shrub that retains its green leaves throughout the year. The spelling of this word can be broken down using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first syllable "ev-" is pronounced as "ˈɛvər" and the second syllable "-ergreen" is pronounced as "ˌɛvərˈɡrin". The final syllable "-hazel" is pronounced as "ˈheɪzəl". Thus, the entire word can be pronounced as "ˈɛvərˌɡrin ˈheɪzəl". It is often used for ornamental purposes in gardens and landscapes due to its attractive foliage.
Evergreen hazel, scientifically known as Corylus avellana 'Fuscorubra', is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Betulaceae family. This cultivar of the common hazel typically grows up to 6 to 10 feet in height and spreads out to form a round, bushy shape. However, unlike its deciduous relative, evergreen hazel retains its foliage throughout the year, maintaining its green color even during the winter months.
The leaves of the evergreen hazel are elliptical in shape, measuring about 2 to 5 inches long. They have serrated edges and a smooth surface, providing an attractive appearance to the shrub. The foliage turns a reddish-purple hue during autumn, adding a splash of color to the landscape.
In late winter or early spring, evergreen hazel produces catkins, which are small, cylindrical clusters of flowers. These catkins are pendulous and appear before the leaves emerge. The shrub is monoecious, meaning it bears both male and female flowers on the same plant. The flowers are primarily wind-pollinated, and with successful pollination, they develop into edible nuts that are enclosed within a papery husk.
Evergreen hazel prefers well-drained soil and thrives in partial shade or full sun. It is adaptable to various soil types and can tolerate humidity and mild drought conditions. This shrub is commonly used in residential landscaping, as hedging, or as part of mixed borders to provide year-round interest with its evergreen foliage and showy catkins.
The etymology of the word "evergreen hazel" can be broken down as follows:
1. Evergreen: The term "evergreen" originates from the Old English word "ǣfregrēne", which combines "ǣfre" meaning "always" or "ever" and "grēne" meaning "green". In Old English, it referred to plants that retain their leaves and remain green throughout the year, regardless of the season.
2. Hazel: The word "hazel" comes from the Old English "hæslen", which ultimately derives from the Proto-Germanic word "haslaz". This word is similar across various Germanic languages and is related to Old Norse "hasl" and Dutch "hazelaar". The term refers to both the tree (Corylus) and its nuts, often used in culinary and medicinal purposes.