European Hazelnut vs Swamp White Oak - TreeTime.ca

European Hazelnut vs Swamp White Oak

Corylus avellana

Quercus bicolor

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

European Hazelnut
Swamp White Oak

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.

The Swamp White Oak is a medium-sized deciduous tree native to North America. It is commonly found in swamps, lowlands, floodplains, and near streams and lakes. The leaves are two-toned, green on top and silvery-white on the undersides, adding to the visual appeal of this popular shade tree.

In the fall, the Swamp White Oak produces acorns which are an important food source for wildlife. It also provides a habitat for the larvae of many butterfly and moth species, playing an important ecological role. Although its growth is slow in the first few years, once the roots are established, it can achieve faster annual growth.

European Hazelnut Quick Facts

Swamp White Oak Quick Facts

Zone: 4a
Zone: 4a
Height: 5 m (16 ft)
Height: 15 m (50 ft)
Spread: 4 m (12 ft)
Spread: 15 m (50 ft)
Light: partial shade, full sun
Light: partial shade, full sun
Moisture: normal
Moisture: normal, wet
Growth rate: medium
Growth rate: medium
Life span: medium
Life span: long
Suckering: medium
Suckering: none
Maintenance: medium


Toxicity: mildly toxic to humans, cats, and dogs
Nuts: woody shelled with thin brown skin
Nuts: acorns
Flavor: sweet, with an earthy taste
Harvest: late summer - early fall
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: yes
Catkins: no


Native to: ON, QC
Other Names: cobnut, common filbert, common hazelnut, european filbert, european hazel
Other Names: bicolor oak