You grow Corylus avellana 'Contorta' (Harry Lauder's Walking Stick 'Contorta') for its unforgettable, twisted branches that read like living sculpture, especially once leaves drop and the framework is on full display.

In late winter to early spring, the plant carries dangling catkins that add another layer of seasonal interest. Set it where you can enjoy the branch structure up close, and consider cutting a few stems for indoor arrangements while the plant is dormant.

At maturity it typically forms a broad, rounded shrub or small tree about 8-10 ft tall, with a similar spread. Give it room to develop its character, and plan on occasional pruning to maintain a balanced outline and to remove any damaged or crossing wood.

Plant it in full sun to part shade in well-drained soil. It handles periods of dryness once established, but looks best with consistent moisture during the first season. Many plants are grafted, so remove any straight shoots or suckers that emerge from below the graft to keep the contorted habit dominant. Hardy in USDA Zones 5-8.

Specifications

• Cold hardiness zone: 5-8 (-20 degrees F) - Contact your local extension to confirm hardiness if you are in a fringe zone (we cannot guarantee hardiness in fringe zones)
• Light: Full sun   Part sun
• Growth rate: Slow
• Mature height: 96-120"
• Spread: 96-120"
• Tolerant of: Drought
• Edible: Yes

Shipping

FREE SHIPPING - Classy Groundcovers offers free shipping, and your plants never spend more than three days in transit.

Precise delivery - another benefit from shopping with us is that you know hpw to control exactly when your order will be shipped.

Shipping information that applies to all plants:
- When We Ship
- You May Specify Your Shipping Date
- Lookup Shipping Date and Tracking Information
- Special Delivery Instructions
- Changing Your Shipping Date
- Accepting Delivery
- Unpacking Your Order
- Returns

Care