Corylus avellana 'Contorta' – Harry Lauder's Walking Stick, Twisted Winter Interest

Harry Lauder's Walking Stick (Corylus avellana 'Contorta')

Corylus avellana 'Contorta' (KOR-ih-lus av-el-AY-nah) is an upright, tree-like shrub with heart-shaped, toothed, mid-green leaves. Pendent yellow catkins are borne in late winter and early spring. Strongly twisted, spiraling shoots provide year-round interest.

Noteworthy Characteristics

• Excellent specimen tree
• Use shoots in floral arrangements
• If possible, purchase trees grown on their own roots to avoid rootstock suckers
• Newer cultivar 'Red Majestic' bears burgundy colored new growth for greater summer appeal

Growing Conditions & Care

Grow in fertile, well-drained soil in sun or partial shade. Ideal for alkaline soils. Prune out unwanted suckers, which can be abundant.

Propagation

Layer in autumn; graft in winter.

Potential Problems

Powdery mildew, blight, canker, dieback, mushroom root rot, fungal spots, Gymnosporangium rust, bud mites, tent caterpillars, and webworms.

Quick Reference

• Height/Spread: 10–15 ft.
• Light: Full sun to part shade
• Moisture: Medium
• Bloom Time: Early spring, spring, winter
• Flower Color: Yellow
• Uses: Specimen plant, focal point, cottage gardens
• Type: Tree