Giant Filbert

Basic Information

Common Name: Giant Filbert

Scientific Name: Corylus maxima

Native Habitat: Southeastern Europe and Southwestern Asia

History / Discovery / Cultivator

The Giant Filbert, scientifically known as Corylus maxima, boasts a history intertwined with human cultivation and utilization. Its origins trace back to Southeastern Europe and Southwestern Asia, where it has grown wild for millennia. While pinpointing the exact “discovery” date and individual is challenging, its presence has been noted in ancient texts and archaeological findings, indicating its long-standing importance to various cultures.

The term “filbert” itself is thought to be derived from Saint Philibert, a 7th-century French abbot whose feast day, August 20th, coincided with the ripening of the nuts in some regions. This suggests a close association between the plant and religious practices or agricultural calendars of the time.

Cultivation of Corylus maxima likely began centuries ago as people recognized its value as a food source. Unlike the common hazel (Corylus avellana ), Corylus maxima is most known for the Lambert Filbert cultivar and is often referred to as the Lambert Hazel or Lambert Filbert. Selective breeding and propagation by early farmers and horticulturists probably led to the selection of superior varieties with larger nuts, better yields, and improved disease resistance. It is believed that the “Lambert” cultivar, named for a British horticulturist in the 18th century (or earlier depending on sources), exemplifies this selective breeding and remains a prominent variety to this day. While specific details on the early cultivators of Corylus maxima are scarce, it’s clear that generations of farmers and gardeners across its native range played a crucial role in its domestication.

From its origins in the woodlands of Europe and Asia, the Giant Filbert has spread to other parts of the world, including North America, where it is cultivated commercially for its nuts. Today, Turkey is the world’s largest producer of hazelnuts and filberts (the terms are often used interchangeably), although Corylus maxima cultivars are also grown in other regions.

The ongoing cultivation and propagation of Corylus maxima, particularly through the selection and improvement of desirable cultivars, ensures its continued importance as a valuable nut-producing plant with a rich and intertwined history with human civilization. It represents a legacy of careful observation, selective breeding, and a deep understanding of the natural world passed down through generations.

Plant Care Summary

Botanical Insights

Adaptations

Giant filberts exhibit several adaptations that contribute to their survival and propagation. Their nut production relies on wind pollination, leading to abundant pollen release during the spring. The tough outer shell of the filbert nut protects the seed from predation and desiccation, allowing for successful germination when conditions are favorable. They are also capable of sprouting from the base of the plant if the main trunk is damaged, ensuring vegetative reproduction. Deciduous leaves allow them to survive harsh winters by minimizing water loss.

Propagation Methods

Giant Filberts can be propagated through several methods:

• Seed: While possible, propagation from seed can be slow and may not result in plants identical to the parent.
• Layering: Bending a low-lying branch to the ground and covering a portion of it with soil encourages root development. Once rooted, the new plant can be severed from the parent.
• Division: Suckers (new shoots arising from the base) can be carefully dug up and transplanted.
• Grafting: Grafting is often used to propagate specific cultivars onto rootstock, ensuring desirable traits are maintained.

Toxicology

Giant filberts are generally considered non-toxic to humans and pets. The nuts are edible and a valuable food source. However, the hard shell of the nut can pose a choking hazard, especially for small children and pets. In rare cases, individuals with nut allergies may experience allergic reactions to filberts ranging from mild skin irritation to severe anaphylaxis. It’s essential to be aware of potential allergic reactions and seek medical attention if necessary. While the plant itself is not considered toxic, it’s always wise to exercise caution and prevent excessive consumption of any plant material by pets.

Common Problems

Pests:

• Aphids
• Spider mites
• Filbertworm
• Japanese beetles

Diseases:

• Eastern Filbert Blight
• Powdery Mildew
• Crown Gall

Other:

• Nut drop (premature): Caused by inadequate pollination, nutrient deficiencies, or water stress.
• Poor nut development: Can be due to insufficient sunlight or late frosts damaging the blossoms.
• Yellowing Leaves: Often caused by nutrient deficiencies or waterlogged soil.

Rarity & Value

Rarity:

While not exceptionally rare, specific cultivars of Giant Filbert, particularly those with unique characteristics or limited availability, can be considered relatively uncommon. Some older cultivars or those not widely propagated commercially may be less frequently encountered. The success of propagation and disease resistance of particular cultivars also influences their availability. Also, the need for specific pollinators to be planted along with the main plant can reduce its desirability.

Value:

The value of a Giant Filbert plant is influenced by several factors. Size and maturity play a significant role, with larger, more established trees commanding higher prices. The specific cultivar also affects value, with desirable varieties known for their nut quality and yield being more sought after. The overall health and vigor of the plant contribute to its worth. Strong, well-branched specimens free from disease or pest infestations are generally more valuable. Current market demand for filbert nuts and the availability of plants in nurseries and garden centers also impact pricing. Plants sold at nurseries can range from $30 to upwards of $100+ depending on the age and size of the plant.