Corylus americana, commonly known as American hazelnut, is a deciduous shrub native to North America. It typically reaches a height of 3-4 meters with a spread of 2-3 meters. The shrub has an upright growth habit and produces multiple stems covered in smooth gray bark.
The leaves of the American hazelnut are oval-shaped with serrated edges and a dark green color. In the fall, they turn yellow before dropping off for the winter.
In early spring, before the leaves emerge, the plant produces small clusters of yellowish-green flowers. These flowers give way to edible nuts that ripen in late summer or early fall.
American hazelnuts prefer well-drained soils and can tolerate partial shade or full sun exposure. They are commonly found growing along woodland edges, stream banks, and other moist areas throughout their native range.
In addition to being an important food source for wildlife such as squirrels and birds, American hazelnuts have also been used by humans for centuries as food and medicine. The nuts can be eaten raw or roasted, and extracts from various parts of the plant have been used to treat ailments such as coughs, colds, feverish conditions, and diarrhea, among others.
American hazelnut has strong resistance to disease and is generally not susceptible to illness. In terms of care, this plant is fairly low-maintenance. When planted outdoors it needs only minimal watering, and larger plants typically do not require pruning. Smaller plants, however, should be pruned after they have finished blooming. American hazelnut is appropriate for anyone with outdoor space, such as a garden or a deck, and does not require extensive gardening experience.
How to keep Corylus Americana.
Light
American hazelnut performs best with moderate sun exposure but can tolerate conditions from full sun to full shade. In its native habitat it experiences a range of light intensities. Excessively strong light can cause stress, while very low light hampers its vibrant growth.
Water
The American hazelnut flourishes in temperate climates with moderate moisture and prefers well-drained soils. It should be watered every 1 to 2 weeks, with adjustments made during its dormant period in colder months. This plant can withstand short droughts, showcasing its resilience to changes in seasonal water availability.
Humidity
This plant will thrive in moderate humidity, which is probably the level in your home. However, misting it a few times a week can be very beneficial. Make sure the room has good ventilation.
Temperature
American hazelnut favors a temperate climate and can grow across a wide temperature range, from 41 ℉ (5 ℃) to 95 ℉ (35 ℃). In colder seasons, keep soil temperatures above 32 ℉ (0 ℃) to prevent freezing damage. When summer heat becomes excessive, providing shade or shelter from direct sunlight will help protect American hazelnut from heat stress.
Fertilizer
Fertilize your American hazelnut in early spring to encourage healthy growth. Regular fertilization improves overall health, producing vigorous growth, greater resilience to adverse conditions, and enhanced resistance to diseases and pests. Keep to a specific fertilization schedule for your American hazelnut to preserve vibrant, deeply colored, and lush foliage.
Pruning
The American hazelnut produces edible nuts and benefits from pruning in early spring. Important practices for maintaining its health and productivity include removing dead or crossing branches to improve airflow and light penetration, thinning the center to enhance fruit yield, and eliminating suckers to preserve the plant's structure. These actions promote healthy, vigorous growth and help maintain an attractive shape.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Shrub
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Corylus
- Family
- Betulaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 4-9
- Mature Height
- 2.74 m to 3.66 m
- Mature Spread
- 2.44 m to 3.66 m
- Leaf Color
- Green, Yellow, Red, Orange
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
- Flower Color
- Tan
- Flower Size
- 2.54 cm to 7.62 cm
- Bloom Time
- Early spring, Mid spring
- Planting Time
- Autumn, Spring, Summer
- Harvest Time
- Mid summer
Other names.
Reader questions.
How should I water my American hazelnut tree the best way?
To ensure excellent root development, place a garden hose at the base of the plant. Avoid spraying the leaves directly, especially if they are exposed to direct sunlight. For moistening the roots, consider using bubblers or soaker hoses. Soaker hoses are also useful for thoroughly watering the entire garden or bed when adding or removing plants. After watering, remove any excess water and allow the soil to dry before watering again. Watering at ground level helps prevent diseases. On a sunny day, it may be beneficial to spray the entire bush with water. Whether it is potted or in the ground, remember that American hazelnut prefers deep watering rather than light sprinkling.
Why do I have to put fertilizer on my American hazelnut tree?
No matter the type of American hazelnut you have, fertilizing regularly will improve its overall health. Having a proper supply of nutrients promotes stronger growth and helps the hazelnut plant withstand difficult growing conditions, making it more resistant to diseases and pests. The foliage of the hazelnut is particularly appealing, so it's important to maintain it. This involves following a regular fertilization schedule specifically tailored to your hazelnut variety. By doing so, you can expect the hazelnut to produce vibrant leaves and have an overall lush appearance.
How many hours of sunlight does American hazelnut require to grow?
American hazelnut thrives with 3-6 hours of direct sunlight each day, but it also needs shade during the hottest parts of the day to avoid sun damage. The ideal scenario is morning sunlight, but it can handle some afternoon sun if it's not too hot. To achieve this balance, consider planting American hazelnut in a partially sunny spot, like under a tree or on the east side of a building.
What temperature is best for American hazelnut?
The ideal temperature range for American hazelnut to thrive is between 65~80℉ (18~27℃). During the main growing phase, it can tolerate temperatures as high as 95℉ (35℃) and as low as 15℉ (-10℃). This species is able to survive freezing winters as it is tolerant of low temperatures. To summarize, the perfect temperature range is 65~80℉ (18~27℃), the highest tolerable range is 85~95℉ (30~35℃), and the lowest tolerable range is -5~15℉ (-20~-10℃) or below.
What do I need to do if I give the American hazelnut plant too much or too little water?
An overwatered American hazelnut may show yellowing, wilting leaves that eventually drop off. The plant may also appear dull and unhealthy, with mushy stems. Adjusting your watering schedule is important when these signs start to appear. On the other hand, wilting can also indicate under watering. In this case, the leaves may become crispy and dry. If the soil is dry and regular watering is not enough, full watering is required. This will help the hazelnut tree recover, but it may still have dry and yellow leaves due to damaged roots. Once the plant returns to normal, the yellowing of the leaves will stop. When keeping an American hazelnut indoors, always check the moisture levels in the pot and avoid overwatering. Look out for black spots on the leaves and let the soil dry out for a few days if necessary. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so transfer the plant to a different pot if you notice discolored and slimy roots. Preventing root rot is crucial, so be cautious of soggy soil. When planting an American hazelnut outdoors, make sure to dig deeper. If the soil is too dry, it may indicate underwatering. Provide adequate watering to help the plant recover.
When is it best to not add fertilizer to my American hazelnut plant?
Do not fertilize your American hazelnut in a few specific times throughout the year. Firstly, avoid fertilizing during the early and mid-winter months when the tree is dormant. Secondly, it is not recommended to fertilize during late spring and summer because the weather is typically hotter and drier, which can have a negative impact on the tree's response to fertilization. To prevent such issues, only fertilize your American hazelnut during early spring and early fall.
What will happen if American hazelnut doesn't receive enough sunlight?
If American hazelnut is exposed to excessive direct sunlight, it may cause the leaves to turn yellow, dry out, or even burn. Additionally, the plant may appear wilted or stunted. To prevent such damage from the sun, it is advisable to provide American hazelnut with shade during the hottest portions of the day. This can be achieved by using a shade cloth or by planting American hazelnut near taller plants that can offer natural shade.
Do I need to change the temperature for American hazelnut while it's growing?
According to research, American hazelnut trees can experience stunted growth when exposed to prolonged high temperatures, especially during the development of axillary buds and main shoots. To promote healthy growth after germination or transplanting, it is recommended to maintain a consistent and cooler temperature of around 65℉ (18℃).
How frequently should I give water to my American hazelnut tree?
The American hazelnut prefers deep and infrequent watering. When planted in pots, it is important to water them with a gallon of water each time due to limited water storage in the pots. In cold regions, watering is needed every 3 to 5 days. You should water the plant early in the morning when the soil is dry, whether it is placed indoors or outdoors. Check the soil inside to determine if watering is needed - if the top 2-3 inches of soil are dry, it's time to water the plant. On hot days, monitor the moisture level daily as the soil in the pot can dry out quickly. If you have a garden, you will also need to irrigate the soil. In a hot climate, watering once a week is recommended. Only water the plant when you notice that about 2 to 3 inches of soil has become too dry, both indoors and outdoors. Keep in mind the amount of rainfall on the plant and avoid adding water to prevent root rot. Additional watering may not be necessary if there is already ample rainfall. American hazelnut typically grows during spring and fall, so it's advised to add mulch about 3 to 4 inches deep when the plant is outdoors to conserve more water. In sandy soil, watering should be done more frequently as it tends to drain faster. On the other hand, with clay soil, watering can be done less frequently and you can let the plant dry for 2-3 days to avoid root rot. Consider marking the date on the calendar when you water and keep an eye out for drooping leaves, as this may indicate that watering is needed.
What kind of fertilizer does my American hazelnut tree need?
In most cases, nitrogen is the most important nutrient for an American hazelnut. However, phosphorus and potassium are not unimportant. A balanced fertilizer like a 10-10-10 can provide all three nutrients in decent amounts. Yet, a more nuanced ratio of nutrients tends to promote optimal growth. Fertilizers with slightly higher nitrogen content, like 10-6-4, often work well. You can choose between using granular or liquid-based fertilizers when fertilizing.
What happens if American hazelnut gets too much sunlight?
If the American hazelnut doesn't receive sufficient sunlight, it might grow tall and thin with less foliage. Additionally, the leaves may become yellow or pale green, which indicates a lack of chlorophyll production due to inadequate sunlight. To resolve this issue, consider relocating the American hazelnut to a sunnier area or trimming nearby foliage to enable more light to reach the plant.
How can I make sure American hazelnut doesn't get too cold in winter?
The American hazelnut is able to endure freezing temperatures when planted in the ground, provided that the winter months do not bring temperatures below 15℉(-10℃). However, when planted in pots or containers, it is important to safeguard the roots from the cold of winter. This can be achieved by wrapping the container in a blanket or by bringing it indoors for complete protection from the elements.
