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Description
Corylus Avellana Contorta, commonly known as the Contorted Filbert or Harry Lauder’s Walking Stick, is a deciduous shrub that is native to Europe and Western Asia. It is a member of the Betulaceae family and is known for its twisted, contorted branches that give it an unusual appearance. The shrub can grow up to 10 feet tall and wide, and it produces catkins in the spring that are followed by edible nuts in the fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fagales |
| Family | Betulaceae |
| Genus | Corylus |
Appearance
The Contorted Filbert has a unique appearance due to its twisted, contorted branches that grow in a zigzag pattern. The shrub also has dark green, heart-shaped leaves that turn yellow in the fall. In the spring, it produces catkins that are a reddish-purple color and up to 3 inches long. The nuts that the shrub produces in the fall are edible and are enclosed in a husk that splits open when ripe.
Care Guide
The Contorted Filbert is a relatively low-maintenance shrub that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your Contorted Filbert healthy:
- Water: The shrub prefers moist, well-draining soil. Water it deeply once a week, especially during hot, dry weather.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the shrub in the early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
- Soil: The Contorted Filbert prefers slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The shrub prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The Contorted Filbert is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Contorted Filbert is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it may be susceptible to the following:
- Aphids: These small insects can cause distorted growth and a sticky residue on the leaves. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Scales: These insects can cause yellowing and stunted growth. Treat with horticultural oil.
- Canker: This fungal disease can cause sunken spots on the bark and cankers that ooze sap. Prune affected branches and treat with a fungicide.
Habitat
The Contorted Filbert is native to Europe and Western Asia and can be found in woodlands, hedgerows, and along streams and rivers. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the nuts of the Contorted Filbert be eaten?
A: Yes, the nuts of the Contorted Filbert are edible and are enclosed in a husk that splits open when ripe.
Q: How often should I water my Contorted Filbert?
A: Water the shrub deeply once a week, especially during hot, dry weather.
Q: What is the hardiness zone range for the Contorted Filbert?
A: The Contorted Filbert is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Q: How tall and wide can the Contorted Filbert grow?
A: The shrub can grow up to 10 feet tall and wide.
Related Plants
- Corylus americana
- Corylus avellana
- Corylus chinensis
- Corylus colurna
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2009). Manual of woody landscape plants: Their identification, ornamental characteristics, culture, propagation and uses. Champaign, IL: Stipes Pub. LLC.
- Horticulture Week. (2021). Corylus avellana Contorta. Retrieved from https://www.hortweek.com/corylus-avellana-contorta/plants/article/1412003
- RHS. (2021). Corylus avellana ‘Contorta’. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/3882/Corylus-avellana-Contorta/Details
