Plant Database
California Hazelnut
Corylus cornuta var. californica
Corylus cornuta var. californica, commonly known as California Hazelnut or Western Beaked Hazel, is a native deciduous shrub or small tree prized for its edible nuts, early spring catkins, and outstanding wildlife value. This western variety differs from the eastern beaked hazelnut in its larger habit, broader leaves with glandular hairs, and shorter husk beak . It typically grows as a multi-stemmed large shrub or small tree, reaching up to 15-25 feet tall, and is one of the first native shrubs to bloom in spring, with pendulous yellow catkins appearing on bare branches . The nuts are a valuable food source for wildlife, and the plant is an excellent choice for native plant gardens, hedgerows, and woodland restoration projects.