The American Hazelnut is a shrub best suited for borders or hedges with a faster growth rate and lower mature height, while the Shagbark Hickory is a large, long-lived specimen tree known for its unique bark and slow growth. Both produce edible nuts and can grow in the Black Hills area, but have different uses and requirements.
Comparison Table: Shagbark Hickory vs. American Hazelnut
| Feature |
|---|
| Shagbark Hickory (Carya ovata) | American Hazelnut (Corylus americana) | |
|---|---|---|
| Mature Size (Height) | 60–80+ ft | 8–15 ft |
| Growth Habit | Large, single-trunk tree, deep taproot | Multi-stemmed shrub, suckering |
| Growth Rate | Slow to Medium (6–12″ per year, faster once established) | Fast (can grow 2 ft per year once established) |
| Hardiness Zone | Zone 4–8 | Zone 4–9 (with protection for Zone 3 prairie) |
| Soil Needs | Prefers deep, moist, well-drained soil, but adaptable to dry upland soils | Prefers moist, well-drained soil, but very adaptable to many soil types |
| Bark | Unique, shaggy bark that peels in long strips | Light brown to gray, relatively smooth |
| Nuts | Edible, sweet nuts; valuable for humans and wildlife | Edible nuts, favorite of wildlife; excellent for roasting |
| Transplanting | Very difficult due to deep taproot; plant in final location | Easy to transplant, can be used for hedges and borders |
Suitability for the Black Hills
Shagbark Hickory:
- Pros: This tree is an excellent long-term investment for large properties, providing unique ornamental value with its shaggy bark and a source of quality nuts. It is hardy enough for the Black Hills region (Zone 4) and has good drought tolerance once its deep taproot is established.
- Cons: Its slow initial growth rate and difficulty in transplanting mean it requires patience and careful site selection.
American Hazelnut:
- Pros: This is a versatile, fast-growing shrub that works well in informal hedges, borders, or naturalized areas. It provides quick cover and food for wildlife and its nuts mature relatively quickly after planting (3-4 years).
- Cons: It spreads by suckering roots, so it needs space or regular maintenance to stay tidy. It may need extra protection in colder areas of the Black Hills that border Zone 3.
In summary, choose the American Hazelnut for a fast-growing, multi-purpose shrub and quick nut production in a smaller footprint. Opt for the Shagbark Hickory if you have a large property, patience for a slow-growing tree, and want a majestic, long-lived shade tree with high-quality nuts.