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Description
Corylus Americana, commonly known as American hazelnut, is a deciduous shrub native to North America. It belongs to the Betulaceae family and is known for its tasty nuts, which are enjoyed by humans and wildlife alike. It can grow up to 15 feet tall and 12 feet wide, making it an excellent choice for landscaping and gardens. The leaves of the American hazelnut are dark green, with a serrated edge, and can grow up to 6 inches long. In the spring, the shrub produces catkins, long and drooping flowers that eventually develop into nuts.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fagales |
| Family | Betulaceae |
| Genus | Corylus |
Appearance
The American hazelnut is a deciduous shrub with an upright and rounded habit. It can grow up to 15 feet tall and 12 feet wide. The leaves are dark green, with a serrated edge, and can grow up to 6 inches long. In the spring, the shrub produces catkins, long and drooping flowers that eventually develop into nuts. The nuts have a hard, woody shell that protects the edible kernel inside. The shrub can be grown as a single specimen or in a group to form a hedge or screen.
Care Guide
The American hazelnut is a low-maintenance shrub that is easy to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the shrub regularly, especially during hot and dry periods. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the shrub in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the package for the correct dosage.
- Soil: The American hazelnut prefers well-drained, loamy soil. If the soil is heavy or clayey, amend it with organic matter such as compost or peat moss.
- Sunlight: The shrub prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Plant it in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: The American hazelnut is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The American hazelnut is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, here are some common problems:
- Aphids: These small insects can infest the leaves and stems of the shrub, causing them to curl and distort. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids.
- Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and bronzing of the leaves. Use a miticide to control mites.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and use a fungicide to control powdery mildew.
- Coryneum blight: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves and cankers on the branches. Remove infected branches and use a fungicide to control coryneum blight.
Habitat
The American hazelnut is native to North America and is found in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and meadows. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and loamy soils. It is commonly found in the eastern and central parts of the United States and southern Canada.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the American hazelnut be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the shrub can be grown in containers if the container is large enough to accommodate the root system. Use a well-draining potting mix and water the shrub regularly.
Q: When is the best time to prune the American hazelnut?
A: The best time to prune the shrub is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches and shape the shrub as desired.
Q: Can the American hazelnut be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the shrub can be propagated from softwood or hardwood cuttings. Softwood cuttings should be taken in the spring or early summer, while hardwood cuttings should be taken in the fall or winter.
Q: How long does it take for the American hazelnut to produce nuts?
A: The shrub typically begins producing nuts after 3-4 years of growth. However, it may take up to 7 years for the shrub to reach full production.
Related Plants
- Corylus avellana (European hazelnut)
- Corylus colurna (Turkish hazelnut)
- Corylus cornuta (Beaked hazelnut)
- Corylus maxima (Filbert)
References
- “American Hazelnut.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=l700. Accessed 20 Nov. 2021.
- “Corylus Americana.” Plant Database, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=COAM2. Accessed 20 Nov. 2021.
- “Corylus Americana.” USDA Forest Service, www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/shrub/coram/. Accessed 20 Nov. 2021.
