Contorted Filbert

The once immensely popular Contorted Hazelnut (Corylus avellana ‘Contorta’), more commonly known as Harry Lauders Walking stick, is a show stopping plant guaranteed to amaze all who admire its beauty. While this plant is gorgeous year-round, its true beauty is shown from late fall to late spring when it has shed its leaves to reveal its oddly formed branches. In spring, as part of the Betulaceae family, the shrub produces yellow flowers, called catkins. This plant is a slow grower, reaching about 10’ in height at maturity and does best in full sun to part shade. Although easy going with the ability to withstand most soil types except clay, and disease resistant, this shrub will need regular pruning to prevent the onset of suckers. Overall, any gardener young or old, beginner or experienced, can grow this plant, and should as it will become a conversational piece.