The American white hazelnut, scientifically known as Corylus americana, is a native deciduous shrub found throughout eastern and central North America. It typically grows 2–4 metres tall and wide, forming dense thickets with multiple stems. The plant produces edible nuts enclosed in a leafy husk, which ripen in late summer to early fall. The nuts are sweet, flavourful, and enjoyed by both wildlife and people, often used in baking and confections. American white hazelnut is also valued for its ornamental qualities, including attractive catkins in early spring and vibrant yellow foliage in autumn. It is adaptable, hardy, and useful for hedges, wildlife plantings, and naturalised landscapes.