Hazelnuts as an understory?

I'm interested in planting so hazelnuts in our redwood forest. Would they do well as understory bushes?

Hazelnuts are an understory tree. For sure they work under Oaks. Not sure about Redwoods.

Redwoods, hmm.
Most redwood stands that I have seen pretty well obstruct most sunlight from filtering through.
My suggestion would be to try planting seedlings, rather than seeds.
(Might have a little better luck that way.)

From my experiences, a started plant has more of a will to live than a seed does.

In the natural redwood forests shade loving blueberry relatives and ferns grow. these might be a good start.