Corkscrew Hazel (Corylus avellana 'Contorta')

Corkscrew Hazel – Twisted Branches for Winter Interest

Corylus avellana 'Contorta', commonly called Corkscrew Hazel, Contorted Filbert, or Harry Lauder's Walking Stick, is a deciduous shrub prized for its dramatically twisted, contorted branches that provide exceptional winter silhouette. The cultivar was discovered in a hedgerow in England in the 19th century. In late winter, it produces yellow catkins (male flowers) on the bare, gnarled stems. The leaves are rounded, doubly serrate, and turn yellow in fall. It grows 8–10 feet tall and wide, preferring full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil.

Taxonomic Details