Corylus avellana 'Contorta'

corkscrew hazel

Eventual height & spread

Corylus avellana 'Contorta'

corkscrew hazel

  • 12 litre pot | 80 - 125cm tall | grafted
  • £79.99 £99.99
  • In stock (shipped within 2-3 working days)
  • 5 litre pot
  • £49.99
  • available to order from autumn
  • 9 litre pot | 1.2m tall | tree
  • £79.99
  • available to order from autumn
Delivery options
  • Standard £12.99
  • Named Day £10.99
  • Position: full sun or partial shade
  • Soil: fertile, well-drained, preferably chalky soil
  • Rate of growth: slow
  • Flowering period: February to March
  • Hardiness: fully hardy


In February and March, the bizarrely contorted stems of this small hazel are draped with golden-yellow catkins. The leaves, which are mid-green and twisted, appear later. This corkscrew hazel is ideal for the middle of a sunny border, where its winter outline can be fully appreciated, or planted in large containers.

The twisted stems of Corylus avellana 'Contorta' are much-valued by flower-arrangers, and can also be used to provide a curious and unusual focal point for an oriental-style garden.


  • Garden care:
    When planting, add some soil conditioner (well-rotted compost) to the planting hole and some mycorrhizal fungi to aid root establishment.

    Ensure the top of the plant's compost is flush with the level of the surrounding soil and the collar of the tree is above ground level.

    Support taller specimens either with a bamboo cane and or stake during establishment. Water generously around the base of the plant.