HAZELNUT
(AMERICAN FILBERT)
(Corylus americana)
Hazelnut is a fairly fast growing shrub whose dense low growth habit provides cover and nesting sites for many wildlife species. Hazelnut can reach heights of 6-15' tall, is tolerant of a variety of soils and can be found in open habitats but also can grow in deep shade. The nuts that emerge in July-August are smaller but similar to the cultivated ones in flavor. Hazelnut has long been valued as an ornamental and for planting in naturalized settings.
Wildlife Food & Cover:Good food-nut, browse for rabbit, deer. Good cover-nesting, escape cover.
Flowers: Greenish-white inconspicuous
Fruit: Acorn-like nut wrapped in leafy bract, late summer
Ecosystem: Dry Oak Forest, Mesic (Moist) Oak Forest, Lowland Hardwood Forest
Other: Nut has high nutritional value
Source: Conservation Trees and Shrubs Pocket ID Guide
US Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service