Attractive Shrub with Edible NutsThe Hazelnut is a lovely shrub that will provide edible nuts in the fall and be a friend to wildlife year round.  Plant some as a hedgerow along your property boarder, or plant several in a naturalized area where they’ll be able to spread. The Hazelnut is a remarkable plant.  It can grow almost anywhere and achieve its mature size in no time at all.  It won’t mind if you prune it at any time of the year, so you can trim and mold it to whatever shape or space you prefer. It grows to 12 feet tall with a 15 foot spread, so you don’t need much space in your yard to enjoy a Hazelnut, and wildlife will thank you for providing them with one of their favorite plants.In the spring, 3-inch clusters of male catkins appear, their yellow-brown tassels gently swaying in the warm breeze.  If you look close you’ll discover the female flower.  It’s a tiny purple surprise hidden among the branches.  Dark green, heart-shaped, 3-6 inch serrated leaves will soon fill out your Hazelnut for summer.When fall arrives, your Hazelnut colors will vary, from oranges and yellows to the color of a deep red wine. In late summer/early fall you’ll begin to notice actual Hazelnuts (also called filberts).  Clusters of ½ inch green leafy capsules will appear throughout the bush, eventually turning brown. When ripe, gently pop off the brown husk and your ready for a treat.Raw or roasted, the Hazelnut is an outstanding nut.  It’s sweet in flavor and although having a variety of uses, is often used in desserts.  It’s rich in fiber, vitamins and minerals with the added benefit of being gluten-free for those who are sensitive.  The oil is often used in medications and also in aromatherapy.For a hardy shrub with a variety of appeal, you can’t go wrong with a Hazelnut.* Attractive shrub* Edible nuts* Attracts wildlife* Fast Growing.