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Description
Corylus Cornuta, commonly known as the Beaked Hazelnut, is a deciduous shrub that is native to North America. It belongs to the Betulaceae family and can grow up to 15 feet tall. The plant produces edible nuts that are a popular food source for wildlife and humans alike. It is known for its ornamental value as well, with its attractive foliage and unique-looking flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fagales |
| Family | Betulaceae |
| Genus | Corylus |
Appearance
The Beaked Hazelnut has a multi-branched, spreading habit, with a height and spread of 6-15 feet. Its leaves are dark green and oval-shaped, with a serrated edge. The plant’s flowers bloom in the spring, with male flowers appearing in long, hanging catkins, and female flowers appearing in small clusters at the end of the branches. The nuts form in a cluster of woody, beaked husks, giving the plant its name.
Care Guide
The Beaked Hazelnut is a low-maintenance plant that is relatively easy to care for. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The plant needs regular watering, especially during the first year of growth.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soils and can tolerate a range of soil types.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The Beaked Hazelnut is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Beaked Hazelnut is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may occasionally be attacked by aphids, spider mites, or leafhoppers. Common diseases include leaf spot and powdery mildew. To avoid these problems, make sure to keep the plant healthy and well-maintained.
Habitat
The Beaked Hazelnut is native to North America, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and riparian zones. It is commonly found in the eastern United States and Canada, from Newfoundland to Georgia, and west to Minnesota and Saskatchewan.
Question and Answer
Q: Are the nuts produced by the Beaked Hazelnut edible?
A: Yes, the nuts are edible and are a popular food source for wildlife and humans alike.
Q: Can the Beaked Hazelnut be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers, but it may not produce as many nuts as it would in the ground.
Q: Does the Beaked Hazelnut require pruning?
A: The plant does not require pruning, but it can be pruned to maintain its shape or to remove dead or damaged branches.
Q: How long does it take for the Beaked Hazelnut to produce nuts?
A: The plant typically begins to produce nuts after 3-5 years of growth.
Related Plants
- Corylus Americana
- Corylus Avellana
- Corylus Maxima
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2009). Manual of woody landscape plants: their identification, ornamental characteristics, culture, propagation and uses. Stipes Pub Llc.
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Corylus cornuta. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b431
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Corylus cornuta. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=COCO8
