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Shrub · DeciduousSKU 170362

Corylus Contorta 20 Litre Pot 100/120cm Tall

Corylus Contorta 20 Litre Pot 100/120cm Tall

Corylus avellana 'Contorta'
A beautiful unusual shrub with contorted branches with green foliage that turns rich yellow in autumn and in winter the bare branches cloaked in catkins.
£116.00
£116.00
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Corkscrew Hazel
Corylus avellana 'Contorta'
RHS AGM Winner Pet Safe
Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Hardiness
H6 (-20 to -15°C)
Mature size
2.5-4m tall × 2.5-4m wide
Foliage
Deciduous
Flowers
Yellow
Flowering
Spring, Winter
Soil
Chalk, Loam, Sand
Aspect
South-facing, East-facing, West-facing
Supplied as
Pot Grown
Growth rate
Slow
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About Corylus Contorta 20 Litre Pot 100/120cm Tall

Corylus avellana ‘Contorta’ – Twisted Elegance for Year-Round Interest

Corylus avellana ‘Contorta’, also known as the Corkscrew Hazel or Harry Lauder’s Walking Stick, is a truly unique and eye-catching deciduous shrub or small tree. Its distinctive contorted branches create an architectural statement, particularly striking in winter when the twisted structure is fully revealed. In early spring, it produces pale yellow catkins that dangle beautifully from the bare branches, adding seasonal charm and movement.

This ornamental hazel is perfect for bringing form, texture, and interest to borders, woodland gardens, or as a specimen feature. Whether in leaf or bare, it provides visual intrigue in every season.

Key Features

  • Branches: Twisted, spiralling stems that provide sculptural appeal, especially in winter.
  • Catkins: Golden-yellow, pendulous catkins appear in late winter to early spring.
  • Foliage: Heart-shaped green leaves emerge after the catkins, turning golden in autumn.
  • Height & Spread: Grows to approximately 2.5–4m tall and wide over time.
  • Growth Habit: Slow-growing and compact with a naturally rounded, bushy form.

Ideal For

  • Winter gardens and year-round interest
  • Architectural focal points
  • Cottage and woodland-style gardens
  • Cut branches for indoor floral displays

Growing Conditions

  • Position: Thrives in full sun to partial shade.
  • Soil: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil but is adaptable.
  • Hardiness: Fully hardy and suitable for most UK gardens.
  • Care: Minimal pruning required – just remove any unwanted suckers or crossing branches.

Why Choose Corylus ‘Contorta’?

  • Unique twisted stems for structural impact
  • Decorative catkins for seasonal beauty
  • Ideal as a specimen or in mixed planting
  • Low-maintenance and hardy

Corylus avellana ‘Contorta’ is a plant of true character – captivating in winter, charming in spring, and graceful throughout the year. A must-have for gardeners looking to add an artistic, sculptural element to their outdoor space.

Plants well with

Our growers' picks to plant alongside Corylus Contorta 20 Litre Pot 100/120cm Tall for a fuller, longer-lasting display.