Kentucky Coffeetree vs European Hazelnut - TreeTime.ca

Kentucky Coffeetree vs European Hazelnut

Gymnocladus dioicus

Corylus avellana

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

Kentucky Coffeetree
European Hazelnut

The Kentucky Coffeetree has the largest leaves of any native tree in North America! In the summer, its large green canopy provides shade. While in the winter, its leathery bean pods act as a decorative element against the sky as they rattle in the wind. Beautiful year-round, this tree is an elegant addition to any landscape.

European Hazelnut is a large shrub that is native to Europe. It is known for its edible nuts that ripen in late summer to early fall. The nuts can be eaten raw or roasted and have a sweet, earthy flavour. Nut production can start as early as 2-3 years but typically takes until at least 4 years for significant yields.

Catkins appear in late winter to early spring and as they release pollen it attracts bees and other pollinators. Since male and female flowers bloom at different times, multiple shrubs will have to be planted for cross pollination. It is recommended to plant European Hazelnut with other hazelnut varieties such as Beaked Hazelnut, Frank, Yamhill, and York. Planting with other varieties will increase nut production.

Kentucky Coffeetree Quick Facts

European Hazelnut Quick Facts

Zone: 3a
Zone: 4a
Height: 21 m (70 ft)
Height: 5 m (16 ft)
Spread: 15 m (50 ft)
Spread: 4 m (12 ft)
Light: full sun
Light: partial shade, full sun
Moisture: dry, normal
Moisture: normal
Growth rate: medium
Growth rate: medium
Life span: long
Life span: medium
Suckering: high
Suckering: medium
Maintenance: medium

Toxicity: Uncooked pods are toxic to humans

Nuts: woody shelled with thin brown skin
Flavor: sweet, with an earthy taste
Harvest: late summer - early fall
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: yes


Native to: ON
Other Names: coffeetree
Other Names: cobnut, common filbert, common hazelnut, european filbert, european hazel