This vigorous Italian variety is used mainly for blanched kernels that have a nutty flavour. Hazelnuts prefer mild summers and cool winters (temperate climate) and do best when a number of conditions are met: annual rainfall of over 750 mm or additional irrigation especially while establishing after planting; and protection from wind and high summer temperatures.
• Pollination Group: Male and female flowers on the same tree don’t always flower at the same time so it is best to have other varieties present nearby to improve pollination, in particular: Barcelona, Hall’s Giant, TB Cosford, Lewis
• Uses: eating, cooking, roasting
• Harvest: nuts fall (Feb to March)
• Chill requirement: Good yields require long cold periods of 5 to 7 deg C for about 1,200 hours. Female flowers are vulnerable to frosts of below -5 deg C especially when opening. This variety may be suited to sites that have milder winters and less chilling hours.
• Features: Great producer with excellent flavour
Reference 4: Lyle, S. (2006) Fruit & nuts: A comprehensive guide to the cultivation, uses and health benefits of over 300 food-producing plants. Timber Press, Oregon USA.
