8. Corylus avellana, 'Contorta' Henry Lauder's Walking Stick

 

Corylus avellana 'Contorta', Harry Lauder's Walking Stick, Hazelnut

Round simple leaf in an alternate arrangement

8. Harry Lauder’s Walking Stick, Corylus avellana ‘Contorta’

Artist’s Note:

An interesting sport or lusus of the European hazelnut, this naturally occurring genetic variation causes the twisted structures of Corylus avellana ‘Contorta’.  Even the leaf veins torque on its convoluted branches. In early spring, the male catkins combined with the twisted bare branches, make it a favorite of floral designers. It produces delicious hazelnuts, but you would be lucky to find one before the birds do.

 

Tucked into the upper left corner of the garden near Tupper Street, this deciduous, small shrub-like tree is an unusual and charming specimen. Who was Harry Lauder, anyway, and why name it after him? An entertainer from the 19^th century who carried a twisted walking stick. 

 

 

Vulgo: Harry Lauders Walking Stick or Contorted Filbert

 

Name: Corylus avelllana ‘Contorta’

 

Family: Betulaceae

Habit: Small shrub-like tree

Height: 10 ft (3 M)

Native to: Great Britain

 

Leaf type: Simple

 

Shape: Round

 

Tip: Acute

 

Margin: Double serrate

 

Venation: Pinnate

 

Surface: Wrinkled

 

Size: 3 in (7 cm)

 

Arrangement: Alternate 

Pen and ink: Amber R Turner © 2020