Strong shrub that grows to multi-stemmed tree with densely branching, round crown. The brown young twigs are slightly hairy, the older bark starts to peel after some years. The matt green leaves are also hairy, making them feel a little rough. In autumn they turn into brownish yellow. The graceful, male catkins are already visible before winter, but open around late February. The small, red, female flowers grow from the leaf buds and are inconspicuous. The fruits ripen around September. The hazelnuts are partly enclosed by two carpels. The nuts contain many vegetable fats and proteins and are therefore a healthy delicacy. The root system is susceptible to suffocation. Can be used in any soil as long as it is adequately airy and drained.