Hall's Giant, also known as Halle Giant or Merveille de Bollwiller, lives up to its name, producing some of the largest nuts of any hazel. It is a hardy, vigorous and productive variety, and in late winter it's hung with long golden catkins, one of the first cheerful signs of spring. In early autumn it bears generous crops of big, well-flavoured nuts that are delicious fresh, toasted or used in baking, and they can also be dried and stored for the winter. It is an excellent pollinator too, making it a great companion for other hazels.
Hall's Giant forms a large shrub or small tree of up to around 6m if left unpruned, but regular pruning keeps it smaller and more productive, or it can be coppiced for poles and pea sticks. It makes a fine addition to a mixed hedge, wildlife garden or small orchard. Hazels crop best with a different variety nearby for cross-pollination, and Gunslebert, Cosford, Butler, Ennis and Kentish Cob all make good partners. Plant in a sunny, sheltered spot for the best crops, in any reasonably well-drained soil that isn't too rich. Harvest the nuts as the husks begin to turn yellow, and gather promptly if squirrels visit your garden. Fully hardy.
Supplied in a 7-litre pot.
Each plant is hand-selected before dispatch.
Available from Pengelly Garden Centre.
