Corylus contorta – The Twisted Beauty for Year-Round Garden Interest
Corylus contorta, commonly known as the Contorted Filbert or Harry Lauder’s Walking Stick, is a remarkable deciduous shrub or small tree prized for its uniquely twisted and spiralling branches. This distinctive feature creates dramatic winter interest, standing out in any garden even when leafless.
In early spring, Corylus contorta produces bright yellow catkins that add fresh colour and texture before the leaves emerge. Its foliage emerges with rich green leaves that often turn yellow in autumn, providing seasonal variety.
Growing to around 4–6 metres tall, this adaptable plant thrives in well-drained soil and prefers full sun to partial shade. It’s perfect for adding architectural drama and natural sculpture to mixed borders, woodland gardens, or as a standout specimen.
Why Choose Corylus contorta?
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Unique Twisted Branches – Eye-catching architectural form all year round.
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Early Yellow Catkins – Brighten early spring before leaf emergence.
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Seasonal Foliage – Fresh green leaves turn warm yellow in autumn.
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Versatile Size – Suitable for medium gardens or woodland settings.
Planting & Care Guide
Position: Full sun to partial shade for best growth.
Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soil but adapts to various soil types.
Watering: Regular watering during establishment; drought tolerant once mature.
Feeding: Apply balanced fertiliser in early spring to encourage healthy growth.
Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to shape and remove any dead or crossing branches.
Design & Planting Ideas
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Use as a specimen tree or architectural focal point.
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Combine with spring bulbs to add seasonal layers.
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Ideal for woodland or naturalistic gardens for texture and form.
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Works well alongside evergreens for year-round interest.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.
