Hazel buds are alternate, they are found arranged in turn on opposite sides of the stem, which I have tried to show in the photo. You have probably all noticed the Hazel catkins while you are out and about. Did you know that the catkin is the male flower and it is this that releases the pollen? These have been on the tree over winter and are now coming into flower. The female part is a tiny, and rather beautiful, red flower. It is this that produced the nuts. Try to find one when you are out walking next.
Hazel was typically used to make Wattle and Daub in buildings because of its strength and flexibility. Apparently Hazel’s fertility is now compromised because grey squirrel remove all the nuts before they ripen!
Harrow Nature Heroes 