Fri, 01 May 2026 11:06:18 +0000

Boulder Hazels: The Forgotten Nutrier of the Mountain Wilds Nestled among the rugged cliffs and sun-drenched slopes of the Western U.S., boulder hazels (Carya ornata) stand as quiet sentinels of the forest—nature’s resilient nut-bearing trees. Though not as widely celebrated as their oak or hickory relatives, boulder hazels (also known as Illinois hazelnuts) offer a rich blend of ecological value, historical significance, and subtle culinary potential. Unsure what a boulder hazel is? Read on to discover why these underrated hazelnut trees deserve a spot in your woodland or garden. ### What Is a Boulder Hazel? The boulder hazel is a deciduous small to medium-sized tree native primarily to theandenburg and limestone regions of the Midwest, especially Illinois—hence its most common name. Scientifically known as Carya ornata, this member of the Juglandaceae family thrives in well-drained soils across rocky outcrops, bluffs, and forest edges. Growing up to 35 feet tall, it features smooth, gray bark and distinctive deeply lobed leaves that turn golden in autumn.