American hazelnut - Corylus americana (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images)

American hazelnut

Also known as: American hazel

American hazelnut (Corylus americana) is a deciduous shrub that will grow from 2.5 to 5 m tall. Commonly found growing in thickets woodlands and prairies. It prefers full sun to partial shade. Showy large male and small female catkin flowers bloom in spring. American hazelnut produces edible nuts that attract birds.

Scientific classification

Species

American hazelnut (Corylus americana)

Beeches, walnuts, and allied trees

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Spring, Early summer

Bloom Time

Summer, Fall

Harvest Time

2.5 m to 3.5 m

Plant Height

2.5 m to 3.5 m

Spread

Green, Yellow, Red, Orange

Leaf Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of American hazelnut

Attributes of American hazelnut

Growth Rate

The American hazelnut american hazelnut exhibits moderate growth primarily in spring and summer, resulting in steady expansion of foliage and stem length. During these seasons, the plant's growth pattern manifests in dense leaf production and incremental height increase, subtly altering its overall morphology. The american hazelnut may present slightly varied growth speeds in other seasons, but it is most active during spring and summer. This moderate growth rate allows for measured resource allocation that contributes to the plant's resilience and vitality, implicating significant horticultural value.

Distribution of American hazelnut

Distribution Map

American hazelnut is native to the temperate woodlands of eastern North America. It has been introduced to other regions as well, marking its presence as a cultivated species. Although details on the specific introduced regions are limited, it is known to be grown outside its native range in places with similar climates.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Thickets, rich wood, roadsides, fencerows, waste place

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

American hazelnut is a desirable plant for wildlife gardens due to the edible and nutritious small nuts it produces, and the shelter and nesting sites it provides for birds and other animals. This species also does well for creating a visual screen or border when planted in hedgerows, displaying colorful foliage in the fall.

Symbolism

Enlightenment, wisdom, inspiration, divination, understanding, creativity, the divine sage, and knowledge

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Quickly Identify American hazelnut

Leaves are rounded with double-serrated edges, transitioning to vibrant yellow to red in fall.

Female flowers have red stigmata, while male flowers are yellow-brown catkins.

Fruit consists of small, green to brown nuts enclosed in textured bracts.

Stems are slender, light green, with short fine hairs for a fuzzy texture.

Bark evolves from smooth gray on younger stems to rugged with deep furrows on older branches.

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Care Guide for American hazelnut

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: American hazelnut thrives in temperate climates with moderate moisture, preferring well-drained soils. Water every 1-2 weeks, adjusting during dormancy in colder months. It withstands short droughts, reflecting its resilience to seasonal water availability.

Fertilize: Fertilize american hazelnut with balanced nutrients in early spring for roots and high nitrogen in mid-spring for foliage. Apply a handful every 3-4 weeks, adjusting for dormancy in winter. Always water after fertilization to aid absorption and prevent burn, while avoiding over-fertilization to protect nut production.

Pruning: American hazelnut produces edible nuts and thrives with early spring pruning. Key practices include removing dead or crossing branches for airflow and light, thinning the center for better fruit yield, and eliminating suckers to preserve structure, promoting healthy, vigorous growth and maintaining an attractive shape.

Propagation: Propagation of american hazelnut via cutting and layering is best in autumn and winter. It is moderately easy, with success indicated by new shoots and root growth. For optimal results, plant cuttings in well-draining soil.

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