How Fast Do Hazelnut Trees Grow?

Hazelnut is a popular food for humans, wildlife and birds.

The American hazelnut (Corylus americana) occurs throughout the eastern United States and northward into Saskatchewan, Canada. Its rapid growth rate makes it a dominant understory species. The tree also has been widely cultivated as an ornamental because of exceptional growth since 1798, according to the U.S. National Forest Service.

Size

A large multi-stem tree or shrub, it grows to a height of approximately 10 feet. Its rapid growth enables it to begin producing viable seeds at only 1 year old. By the age of 2 or 2, it can produce an abundant crop of hazelnuts.

Root Spread Significance

The hazelnut takes only two to three years to grow a diverse rhizome root base, which easily begins to reproduce in colonies beside the parent hazelnut. Most new hazelnut shoots spring up within 1 to 2 feet of the parent.

Fire and Location Considerations

The root system of the American hazelnut can withstand a forest fire. Once the fire occurs, it will immediately begin producing new, vigorous growth. The small tree grows best in moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic material, which aids in its rapid growth rate.

References

• U.S. Forest Service: Corylus americana
• U.S. Forest Service: Trees and Shrubs of the Bartlett Experimental Forest
• U.S. Forest Service: Corylus L.
• Agriculture Guide: Taking Care of Hazelnuts

Resources

• U.S. Forest Service: Hybrid Hazelnuts
• Gardening Central: Hazelnut Trees