Corylus americana

Species of flowering plant in the birch family

Corylus americana, commonly known as the American hazelnut, is a species of hazel native to eastern North America, from southern Canada south to Georgia and west to Nebraska. It is a deciduous shrub that typically grows to a height of 2.5 to 4.5 meters (8 to 15 feet).

Description

American hazelnut leaves and nuts

The American hazelnut is a multi-stemmed shrub with a rounded crown. The leaves are simple, alternate, and serrated, with a length of 6 to 12 cm (2.4 to 4.7 inches). The leaves are broadly ovate with a pointed tip and a rounded base.

The flowers are monoecious, with separate male and female flowers on the same plant. The male flowers are in the form of catkins, which are long and pendulous, while the female flowers are small and inconspicuous, appearing in clusters.

Distribution and habitat

Corylus americana is found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, prairies, and savannas. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of soil types, from sandy to clayey. The shrub is often found in hedgerows and along forest edges.

Ecological importance

The American hazelnut provides food and habitat for a variety of wildlife. The nuts are a valuable food source for squirrels, chipmunks, turkeys, and other birds. The dense shrubbery offers cover for small mammals and birds.

Cultivation and uses

Corylus americana is cultivated for its edible nuts, which are similar to those of the European hazelnut but smaller. The nuts are harvested in the fall and can be eaten raw or roasted. The shrub is also used in landscaping for its attractive foliage and as a windbreak or hedge.

Related pages

• Corylus avellana
• Betulaceae
• Nut (fruit)