European Filbert

Rosita is a named European filbert selection grown for its contorted branching, late-winter flowers, and deep red, wavy foliage. The nursery listing gives this exact selection an 8–12-foot mature height and a spread up to about 10 feet. ## Foliage and site Rosita’s burgundy-green leaves deepen the garden palette, and its wine-red autumn color extends the display beyond summer. Kiefer Nursery lists it for USDA zones 4a–8b and recommends full sun to part shade in moist, organically rich, well-drained soil; it tolerates average garden soil but advises avoiding heavy clay. The same listing describes red husks and small clusters of nuts, though the shrub is chiefly useful here for its ornamental foliage and twisted form. Its mature size can be managed as a large shrub or small tree depending on the space available. [Kiefer Nursery’s Rosita profile](https://kiefernursery.com/product/corylus-avellana-rosita/) ## Maintenance Water consistently while the plant establishes, then adjust to local rainfall and soil drainage. Keep the root area clear of competing weeds and remove unwanted shoots at the base when they disrupt the chosen outline. Prune conservatively to retain the cultivar’s natural contorted framework.