Corylus americana

Deciduous shrub

Plant in early spring or early fall; blooms from late winter to early spring

Full sun to partial shade; does well in 6 hours of direct sunlight a day

60–70°F (15–21°C)

Well-drained soil, tolerates a wide range of soil types including clay

3–9 (USDA)

Seeds generally take 6 to 12 months to germinate after cold stratification

5.5–7.0 (acidic to neutral)

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Mulch to retain moisture

Use a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) in early spring

Multi-stemmed, spreading shrub or small tree with arching branches

By seed, softwood cuttings in early summer, or hardwood cuttings in late fall or early winter

8–16 ft

10–15 ft

The male flowers are typically yellowish and are borne in long, pendulous catkins that can appear in early spring. Female flowers are smaller and appear as green bell-shaped structures with bright red stigmas and styles. They are clustered at the ends of short branches

Bees, butterflies, and birds

Ornamental, wildlife habitat, erosion control, hedges, and borders

Viburnums, wild blueberry, serviceberry, red maple, comfrey, clover, garlic, nasturtium, and yarrow

Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged wood and to maintain shape. Spreading in the form of suckers from the roots should be thinned out to prevent or reduce thickets

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Spider mites, scale insects, fungus gnats, fruit flies, mealybugs, filbertworms, filbert aphids, and hazelnut aphids

Eastern filbert blight, powdery mildew, and canker

American Hazelnut nuts are a favorite food for many wildlife species, including squirrels, deer, and birds. The nuts are also edible for humans and can be used in various culinary dishes