Corylus avellana ‘Contorta’
Harry Lauder’s Walking Stick, is a shrub that is famous for it’s natural curlicue branching pattern. It’s common name is derived from a famous Scotsman in recent years, but it goes by many other names, including ‘Corkscrew Filbert,’ and ‘Contorted Hazelnut.’ It is easily grown in rich soil, and when left alone can grow to be 8 to 10 feet wide and tall, leading some to consider it more of a dwarf tree than a bush. Continual pruning can restrain the size, and the Walking Stick has a good reputation for health and reliability in large containers as well.
Through The Seasons:
The late Spring, Summer and early Fall the shape of the bush is disguised by heavy foliage, but throughout the winter it’s whimsical shape provides interest in a barren landscape. It’s long catkin flowers in the late winter beautifully drape from the plant, resembling elongated Pussy Willow Blossoms.
How To Plant It For Success:
Soil around this plant should be rich and loamy, and the Walking Stick’s location can be in either heavily shaded, or direct sunlight. Pruning the plant regularly is necessary to maintain a shape, and keep the branches from tangling.
Uses for the pruned boughs should be easy to find. The wood is perfect for use in floral arrangements, and seasonal centerpieces. For four season of floral ideas with Walking Stick read The Perfect Shrub For DIY Bouquets and Arrangements.
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