Corylus avellana 'Contorta'

Harry Lauder's walking stick 'Contorta' is a cultivar deciduous tree in the Betulaceae (beech) family. native to Asia, Europe and Africa. This unusual tree has a multi-trunk rounded habit whose branch becomes drooping with age. The contorted branches, crumpled-looking leaves and yellow spring catkins give this tree year-round appeal. The fruit is an edible nut enjoyed by wildlife.

'Contorta' prefers full sun to part shade in organically rich moist, well-drained soils. it is drought tolerant once established. Use this tree as a specimen in a prominent place so the year-round interest can be appreciated. It can also be grown in a container or used as a hedge.  

Prune root suckers to prevent thicket formation. Otherwise only prune to remove diseased or damaged limbs.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Generally, problem-free but can experience powdery mildew or blight. Avoid wet conditions to help prevent this. Tent caterpillars are an insect pest.

VIDEO created by Andy Pulte for “Landscape Plant Identification, Taxonomy and Morphology” a plant identification course offered by the Department of Plant Sciences, University of Tennessee.