The American hazelnut is a small to medium sized deciduous shrub that forms thickets in the understory of forests. Birds use this shrub as a food source in the fall.
Pollinator Type
None (besides caterpillars)
Plant Type
Deciduous shrub
Zone
4 to 9
Height
6-16 ft
Spread
4-8 ft
Light
Partial Shade, Full Sun
Moisture Requirement
Medium Soil, Wet Soil
Bloom Color
Yellow
Bloom Time
March, April, May
Design Considerations
This shrub can tolerate a wide range of soil pH. It is best to plant them in groups of 3 to 4 to achieve mature fruit from wind pollination.
Care and Maintenance
Prune to maintain shape and eliminate suckers.
Pest and Diseases
Susceptible to japanese beetles, scale insects, and filbert blight.
Establishment and Propagation
Establishes well and grows at a fast to moderate rate. Forms colonies.
Commercial Availability
Commonly available.
Alternative Plant Selections
Coralberry, Black Chokeberry, American bladdernut
Native Status
Illinois native statewide.
Fall Color
Leaves can turn greenish-yellow, yellow, orange, or red in the fall. Hazelnuts are enclosed in a frilly husk maturing in September and October.
Growth habit
Thicket-forming, multi-stemmed with round habit.
Number of Caterpillars that Use this as a Host Plant
