Table of Contents
Old Hazel (or Crab Apple)
Corylus avellana (likely) — Common Hazel; or possibly Malus sylvestris — Crab Apple
Old mossy multi-stemmed tree in the Trails Retreat, March 2026
Photo: March 20, 2026 at 14:16 — a gnarled, mossy, multi-stemmed deciduous tree fully bare in early spring. The branches are heavily clothed in moss and lichen, suggesting considerable age and a sheltered, humid position. The outbuilding is visible through the branches, and a grassy path runs to the left.
About
This venerable old tree, with its mossy, lichen-covered branches and multi-stemmed base, is a character piece in the Trails Retreat — the kind of tree that takes decades to develop this much personality. The heavy moss and lichen indicate clean air and a sheltered, consistently humid microclimate. Species has not been confirmed from the winter photograph, but the multi-stemmed, shrubby base and branching pattern are characteristic of Hazel (*Corylus avellana*).
A Crab Apple (*Malus sylvestris* or cultivar) is the alternative — these too develop gnarled, mossy character with age and are commonly found in older Pacific Northwest gardens.
Identification Notes
To confirm:
- Hazel: Produces catkins (male) in late winter; round, toothed leaves; hazelnuts in late summer
- Crab Apple: Produces pink-white blossom in spring; small round fruits in autumn
- Both will leaf out April–May
Care Notes
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Maintenance | Very little required for an established specimen of this age |
| Moss/Lichen | Leave undisturbed — lichen is a sign of clean air and is not harmful to the tree |
| Pruning | Remove any dead or crossing branches after leafing out (easier to assess in summer) |
| Hazards | Old trees should be checked periodically for dead wood; the character branches are worth preserving |
| Wildlife | Hazel provides catkins for bees in late winter; nuts for squirrels/mice; lichen for nesting birds |
Notes
- The outbuilding visible through the branches may cast some shade — monitor for any structural concerns
- The grassy path beside it suggests this is a focal point visible from the trails through this area
- Hazel can be coppiced to rejuvenate but at this age and character, preservation is preferable
- If confirmed as Hazel: look for catkins February–March and nuts August–September
Action Needed
- [ ] Photograph in spring/summer to confirm species (leaves, catkins or blossom)