How To
A hazelnut tree grows to how tall does a hazelnut tree grow heights between 15 and 30 feet at maturity, depending on the variety and growing conditions — but some fast-growing types hit 20 feet in just 5 years.
If you're dreaming of a lush hazelnut grove but limited by space, knowing how tall hazelnut trees grow—and which varieties stay compact—could change your entire planting strategy.
Some, like the common European hazelnut (Corylus avellana), top out around 12 to 18 feet, making them ideal for smaller gardens, while others, such as Corylus maxima, can soar to 30 feet or more.
Below, I’ll break down the fastest-growing varieties, spacing tips to control height, and how to prune for a manageable tree without sacrificing nut production.
Hazelnut tree height by variety: compact vs. giant-growing types
Choosing the right hazelnut variety is critical when space is limited—or when you're dreaming of a towering grove. Hazelnut trees (Corylus spp.) can range from compact shrubs under 8 feet to monumental trees exceeding 30 feet, with growth rates that vary dramatically.
For example, the dwarf varieties like 'Contorta' reach maturity in just 3-5 years, while standard types like 'Tonda di Giffoni' can take a decade to reach their full height. Understanding these differences helps you plan your orchard layout, pruning schedule, and even harvest strategy.
If you're working with a small backyard, semi-dwarf varieties (12-18 feet) offer a perfect middle ground—yielding abundant nuts without overwhelming your space. Meanwhile, giant-growing types like 'Willamette' can shoot up to 25 feet in just 5 years, making them ideal for large properties or commercial orchards.
The key is matching your variety to your goals: fast yields, space efficiency, or long-term timber production.
Below, I’ve broken down the most popular hazelnut varieties by height, including their growth rates and ideal uses. This comparison will help you decide whether to invest in a space-saving dwarf, a balanced semi-dwarf, or a tall standard tree for your garden or farm.
🌱
As you can see, the dwarf varieties like 'Contorta' and 'Red Lake' are perfect for urban gardens or container growing, while semi-dwarf types such as 'Yamhill' strike a balance between space efficiency and productivity.
If you're aiming for a high-yield orchard, 'Willamette' or 'Clark' will deliver faster—but they’ll need ample room to spread their roots and branches. For gourmet nuts, 'Tonda di Giffoni' is worth the wait, though its 10+ year maturation means patience is key.
Another factor to consider is growth rate. Varieties like 'Willamette' can reach 20 feet in just 5 years, making them ideal if you need quick shade or windbreaks. In contrast, 'Tonda di Giffoni' grows more slowly but produces premium-quality nuts that command higher prices at farmers' markets.
If you're planting multiple trees, mix fast and slow growers to create a layered orchard that yields nuts at different stages.
For small gardens, I recommend pairing a dwarf variety (like 'Red Lake') with a semi-dwarf (like 'Yamhill') to ensure cross-pollination while keeping heights manageable. Place the taller tree on the north side to avoid shading the shorter one.
If you're in a windy climate, taller varieties like 'Willamette' can serve as natural windbreaks while still producing nuts—just allow extra space between trees to prevent root competition.
🌳
One common mistake is assuming all hazelnut trees grow as upright trees. Many varieties, especially dwarf and semi-dwarf types, grow in a multi-stemmed shrub
How to control hazelnut tree height: pruning and training tips for small gardens
Hazelnut trees can reach 15 to 30 feet at maturity, but with the right techniques, you can keep them much smaller—even in tight spaces. The key lies in pruning strategies and training methods that encourage bushier growth while maintaining manageable height.
Whether you're working with a dwarf variety or a standard tree, these methods will help you control its size without sacrificing nut production.
Start by choosing the right planting location. In small gardens, consider planting near a fence or trellis to guide vertical growth. This not only saves space but also makes pruning easier.
For compact varieties, like 'Yamhill' or 'Willamette', you can expect heights around 8 to 12 feet with proper care, while standard varieties may need more aggressive pruning to stay under 15 feet.
Step-by-Step Guide to Controlling Hazelnut Tree Height
- 1 Prune in Late Winter: Trim back 1/3 of the growth in late winter or early spring before new buds swell. This encourages bushier growth and prevents vertical sprawl.
- 2 Use the "Open Center" Method: Remove suckers and inward-growing branches to create an open center. This improves air circulation and makes pruning future growth easier.
- 3 Train with a Trellis: Install a strong trellis or fence and guide the main stem vertically. Tie branches to the trellis to control height and encourage horizontal growth for better nut production.
- 4 Thin Out Branches Annually: Remove weak or crossing branches to reduce competition for nutrients. Focus on keeping the tree open and airy for easier maintenance.
- 5 Fertilize for Controlled Growth: Apply a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) in early spring to promote healthy growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to uncontrolled height spikes.
For small gardens, consider planting multiple dwarf varieties in a row rather than one large tree. This creates a low-growing hedge that’s easier to manage and produces nuts at eye level. Always use sharp, clean pruners to avoid damaging the tree, and sterilize them between cuts to prevent disease.
With these techniques, you can keep your hazelnut tree under 10 feet even in standard varieties, making it perfect for urban yards or small homesteads. The key is consistency—prune regularly, train the branches, and monitor growth to ensure your tree stays within your desired height limits.
🌱✂️🌿