American Hazelnut (Corylus americana)

Corylus americana

American hazelnut is a versatile deciduous shrub native to North America. Recognized for its multi-stemmed growth habit, it features attractive, serrated leaves and inconspicuous flowers that give way to clusters of edible nuts. The American hazelnut is valued not only for its ecological role in providing wildlife with food but also for its adaptability to various soil types and its ability to thrive in sun or partial shade. With its compact form, it's an excellent choice for naturalizing landscapes, hedgerows, or garden borders, contributing both ornamental and functional qualities.

Origin: Michigan Native, Oakland County

Current Sale Size: 18-24” bare-root seedling

Growth Rate: Medium (13-24”/yr.)

Soils: Average to well-drained soils

Moisture: Dry to Mesic

Shade Tolerance: Sun to Part Shade

Mature Height: 10-16 ft.

Mature Spread: 8-13 ft.

Deer Damage Potential: Medium. Please cage to prevent deer and rabbit damage. 

Instructions for DIY cage

Uses: Fall color, showy flower, edible fruit (nut), wildlife, pollinators, hedges

Special Notes: Produces edible nuts valued by wildlife; forms dense thickets and is often used in naturalized or restoration plantings.

Historical Observation: Margorie T. Bingham , s.n.. Collected 08-09-1934USA, Michigan, Oakland County: Southfield Twp., 9 Miles Rd. between Evergreen & Lahser. Sec 34

Michigan Flora

Visit for more information:

Missouri Botanical Gardens

USDA Plants Database