Male catkins form in the fall and persist through the winter maturing in spring. At the same time several female flowers bloom together from a small swollen bud surrounded by protective bracts. Hazelnut shrubs are wind pollinated. After blooming, the fertile female flowers develop into a small cluster of nuts with protective bracts that begin green and turn brown as the nut ripens.
Family | Hazelnut |
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Season Bloom | |
Habitat | The Hazelnut offers high value in the landscape. Many insects feed on the leaves and nuts. It supports several moth and insect larva. Many birds feed on the nuts. The male catkins and buds feed Ruffed Grouse and Wild Turkey. Mammals eat the nuts. With its dense branching structure it provides cover and nesting habitat for many song birds. |
Cycle | |
Height | 4-15' |
Leaf Description | Leaves are alternate and up to 6" long and 4.5" across, oval and doubly serrate. Upper surface is medium green and hairless. Lower surface has stiff short hairs. |
Soil Type | Wet |
Light Source | Sun |
Location | Woodland |