Invention Summary:
Rutgers University initiated hazelnut research and breeding program in 1996 to address the fatal tree disease eastern filbert blight (EFB) caused by the naturally occurring fungus, Anisogramma anomala.
Rutgers researchers made large seed collections across Eastern Europe, the Caucuses, and Central Asia to cross and breed the collected trees for eastern US trials. The program spans over 25 years as of 2022, and Rutgers now has 25,000 trees on 20 acres in various stages of evaluation. The result of a cross of ‘Sacajawea’ x Oregon State University selection OSU 616.055, ‘Hunterdon’ hazelnut is a high yielding tree with mostly round, medium to large size kernels that blanch exceptionally well after roasting, making it best suited for the kernel market. Most kernels are 12–14 mm in diameter with an average weight of 1.23 grams and 46% kernel by weight. In addition to excellent blanching, its kernels are noted for outstanding flavor. ‘Hunterdon’ is a vigorous, upright tree with a slightly spreading growth habit and a high level of tolerance to EFB, though slightly less than ‘Raritan’ and ‘Monmouth’ (quantitative resistance). It has S-alleles 1 and 3 with 3 expressed in the pollen, and blooms in early to mid-season in New Jersey. ‘OSU 541.147’ (S8S23), ‘Gene’ (NY398) (S15S23), and ‘Grand Traverse (S11S25) are compatible pollinizer partners. Nuts typically drop from the end of August to first week in September.
Market Applications:
- Nuts and foods
- Bakery and confections
- Beverages
- Oil
- Cosmetics
Advantages:
- EFB Disease Resistance
- Commercially attractive and competitive yields
- Required nut characteristics
Intellectual Property & Development Status: Issued patent: US PP32,461 P2. Available for licensing and/or research collaboration. Please contact marketingbd@research.rutgers.edu
