Within the world market, hazelnuts rank second to almonds in commercial production. Most are grown in Turkey, but the United States is responsible for a small percentage, which are mainly grown in Oregon. Hazelnuts can be found in chocolate confections, baked goods, salads, and even main dishes. They are also an important food source for birds, squirrels, and other wildlife.

History
The origin of the hazelnut is still under speculation, but the evidence points to Asia. France was the first European country to grow the hazelnut, and the French originally brought the commercially grown variety to the Pacific Northwest.

Misconceptions
The filbert and the hazelnut are one and the same. The English named them filberts because they were harvested at the same time the country celebrated St. Philbert's Day. It is unclear why the name changed to hazelnut, but it is fast becoming the more popular choice.

Considerations
The European hazelnut, Corylus avellana, is the most common commercially grown filbert, but it is subject to blight in the United States. Two native hazelnuts Corylus americana and Corylus cornuta seem immune to the blight, so they may be brought into use. Other than producing smaller nuts, they are equally as marketable.

Benefits
Eating hazelnuts is healthy; they provide fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals. They are also a source of cancer-fighting antioxidants and are packed with the good fats needed to keep down cholesterol levels.

Fun Fact
There is a whimsical hazelnut used in landscaping, Corylus avellana ("Contorta" or "Henry Lauder's walking stick"). It is a large shrub with very twisted or contorted limbs that is used in landscaping as an unusual focal point.