Beaked Hazel

Beaked Hazel (Corylus cornuta) is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to the eastern and western United States as well as parts of Canada. It thrives in moist, light to medium soil with partial sun to full sun exposure and can grow up to 3 meters tall. Hardy from zones 4-7, this plant is found across a wide range including Alabama, Alberta, British Columbia, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Manitoba, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Brunswick, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Newfoundland, North Carolina, North Dakota, Nova Scotia, Ohio, Ontario, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Prince Edward Island, Québec, Rhode Island, Saskatchewan, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. The distinctive catkin-like male flowers of Beaked Hazel are a notable feature, while its edible seeds make it valuable in landscapes or food forests where its light requirements and soil preferences can be met. The plant is also appreciated for its utility as a weaving material, dye source, and oil producer. Due to its native status across these regions, Beaked Hazel plays an important role in local ecosystems and provides habitat and resources for wildlife. While it is not medicinal, the seeds are edible and can be harvested for consumption or culinary use.