Gevuina avellana aka Chilean Wildnut

Gevuina avellana, the Chilean hazelnut, belongs to the Proteaceae family. It comes from central and southern Chile and southwestern Argentina. It grows in wet mountain forests, from coastal land to the snow line. It can spread into cleared ground in its home range. Despite its name, it is not a true hazel.

This evergreen grows as a tree or a many-stemmed shrub. Garden heights reach about 33–40 feet [10–12 metres]. Some trees reach 65 feet [20 metres]. Its spread can reach 33 feet [10 metres]. Growth is slow. The leaves grow in an alternate pattern along the stems. Each leaf divides into leaflets, sometimes with a second division. The leaflets have a rich green gloss and coarse teeth. These large, divided leaves give the plant a bold outline.

White flowers grow in spikes shaped like bottle brushes. Each flower has both male and female parts. Insects pollinate them. PFAF gives June to August as the flowering season. Round fruits follow the flowers, turning from cherry red to brown or black. Each fruit holds one edible seed. PFAF records ripe seed in October. Plants in south Devon have flowered and made viable seed each year.

Grow it in partial shade or filtered sun with shelter. It suits a woodland garden or a shaded border edge. It needs moist, fertile soil that drains well and lacks lime. Sandy, loamy, and clay soils can all suit it. Water regularly, but avoid excess water. Dormant plants may survive 14°F [-10°C] in sheltered woodland. New spring growth remains at risk from frost, even on mature plants. British gardens suit it best in mild areas, such as Devon and Cornwall. A site away from early morning sun helps protect frost-tender growth.

The seeds taste like hazelnuts and can be eaten raw or cooked. People sell them in Chilean markets and roast them for a coffee substitute. The seed shells supply tannin. The light, strong wood works well but does not last well. Uses include furniture, oars, and roof shingles. PFAF lists no known hazards or medicinal uses. This does not establish safety for pets. Seedlings may sprout well, then decline and die. PFAF suggests a missing soil fungus may play a role. The supplied sources name no specific pests or diseases.