The hazelnut is a medium to large shrub that can be trained to take the form of a small tree. It is often a multi-stemmed shrub with long, outward growing branches that form a dense, spreading or

spherical shape. American hazelnut prefers full sun for best growth and development. Though it can grow and persist in partial shade, plant density and fruit production are greatly reduced. It is a medium to fast growing species that suckers moderately, eventually producing a multi-stemmed, clump appearance.