Roman hazelnut

Tonda Gentile Romana is a noble, historic Italian variety considered one of the best cultivated hazelnuts. It starts bearing fruit early (in the 5th–6th year after planting) and yields regularly and richly. It tolerates both winter and early spring frosts well. As a monoecious but self-sterile plant, cross-pollination is required, so it is recommended to plant a pollinator pair for a safe and abundant yield. The fruit is medium–large, spherical, slightly flattened on the sides, light brown in color, with an average weight in the shell of approximately 2.7 grams. Its characteristic thin shell is very easy to crack. Its use is versatile: it is excellent for fresh consumption, roasting (where it releases an intense, noble aroma), home baking, and making first-class hazelnut creams.