American Hazelnut

Corylus americana image of American Hazelnut and leaves

American hazelnut, also called hazel or American filbert, is probably native to every county in Missouri. It grows in dense thickets on a wide variety of soils and sites. As an ornamental, it makes a good deciduous screen or barrier. The nut is consumed by humans and wildlife alike.

Identifying Characteristics:

Height
10 ft
Spread
8 ft
Leaves
alternate, simple, 2 l/2" - 6" long, broadly egg- to heart-shaped; edges coarsely doubly toothed; soft hairy below
Flowers
male flowers in yellowish catkins; female flowers inconspicuous along stem
Fruit
globe-shaped nut enclosed in a leafy covering
Bark
brown
Associated species
white oak, black oak, hickory, gray dogwood, blackberry
Ideal site conditions
wide range, shade
Value to man
landscaping, erosion control, food
Value to wildlife
food, cover
Growth Rate
medium
Range
range