Corylus avellana 'Contorta'

Corylus avellana 'Contorta', better known as Harry Lauder's walking stick, has long been one of our favorite large shrubs. This gem was originally found in a hedgerow in Tortworth, England by the late Lord Ducie. The fuzzy green leaves fall after frost, revealing the twisty grey stems. Starting in late January (NC), the stalks are adorned with dangling tan catkins. Harry Lauder's walking stick, which can reach 10' tall x 10' wide in 15 years makes an absolutely stunning specimen in the late winter/early spring garden. Our offerings are on their own roots, so no problem with suckering from inferior rootstocks.