American Hazelnut/Filbert vs Burton Hican
Corylus americana
Carya ovata x illinoinensis Burton
American Hazelnut is a cold hardy, disease resistant, and long-lived nut tree. It is a great choice for a shrub border for wide, open spaces where it will be allowed to spread. Typically used in naturalization projects for its spreading nature, American Hazelnut is ideal for our zone 4 customers.
If you're a zone 3 prairie customer, don't worry! American Hazelnut can still thrive but needs additional care and protection from our harsh prairie climate.
The edible nuts mature from September to October and are usually roasted or eaten fresh. Make sure you take time to notice American Hazelnut's variable and beautiful fall color that ranges from orange, rose, purplish-red, yellow, and green.
Note: You want more than one hazelnut to improve yields.
Burton Hican is a rare cross between Shagbark Hickory and Pecan. Most Hickory x Pecan hybrids are not reliable producers but the Burton Hican produces large crops annually (in warmer climates). The medium sized nuts fall in between the Pecan and Hickory and are known for having a great flavor. They are well suited to fresh eating, cooking, and baking with a good storage life.
Hicans will carry features from both species. The Hickory influence causes earlier ripening times while the taste and productivity come from the Pecan. The Pecan genetics also cause the nuts to have a thinner shell that is easier to crack and the pecan-like shape makes kernel removal easier.
The Burton Hican is generally considered self pollinating but having a second variety for cross pollination will increase nut production. They have been known to cross pollinate with other Hicans, Shagbark Hickory, and some Pecans. Nut production is expected after 7-10 years.
Note: Plant this tree once. Due to its large tap root transplanting is not recommended.