Description

California hazelnut grows in shaded woods of the lower portions of the western Sierra Nevada, the coastal ranges from Monterey County north, and in much of the US and Canada. It develops into a small tree or large, multi-trunked shrub. California hazelnut is round and open in form with large birch-like leaves over gray-hued maroon bark. In late summer catkins appear and remain on the plant through the winter after the leaves have fallen. At maturity it may reach a height of 15 feet or so, but generally grows to no more than 10 feet. California hazelnut generally appreciates shade and access to moisture year-round. It seems to grow most luxuriantly in the Bay Area foothills when it gets five to six hours of sun a day and has access to subterranean water. It also seems to at least tolerate dry shade, however. The nuts are edible but are difficult to protect from squirrels.