How to Grow Corkscrew Hazel
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Corkscrew Hazel
Corylus avellana 'Contorta'
shrubCorkscrew hazel is a deciduous ornamental shrub prized for its dramatically twisted and contorted branches that are especially striking in winter. The plant produces soft, delicate catkins in late winter to early spring before leaves emerge, and bears small edible hazelnuts in autumn. It grows 8-15 feet tall and wide, making it an excellent focal point in gardens.
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Example Corkscrew Hazel timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Corkscrew Hazel
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Corkscrew Hazel
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 4-8; best in cooler climates with good winter chilling
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Get my Corkscrew Hazel timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
First 1-2 yearsYoung plant focuses on root development with upright growth; may not show dramatic branching immediately
Water consistently, mulch around base, protect from extreme weather. Avoid heavy pruning.
Vegetative Growth
Year 2-4Plant develops branch framework; characteristic twisted growth becomes more apparent; leaves emerge late spring and are soft green
Maintain consistent moisture. Prune any crossing or weak branches in late winter. The twist becomes more pronounced with age.
Catkin Production
February-March, 4-6 weeksIn late winter (February-March), long pendulous male catkins appear on branch tips before leaves; female flowers are tiny red structures at branch bases
Do not prune during catkin season. These are the ornamental highlight. Light, gentle cleaning of dead wood only.
Foliage & Nut Development
April-SeptemberRounded, soft green leaves unfold after catkins drop. Small hazelnuts develop in clusters, maturing in brown husks by autumn
Maintain regular watering. Deadhead spent catkins if desired. Watch for spring pests like sawfly.
Autumn & Dormancy
October-JanuaryLeaves turn golden-yellow in fall before dropping, revealing the full sculptural beauty of twisted branches. Plant enters winter dormancy.
No fertilizer needed. The bare twisted branches are the main winter attraction. Prune selectively in late winter before catkins emerge.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Remove affected leaves promptly. Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap in spring when larvae appear. Encourage natural predators.
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Collect and destroy fallen nuts with larvae. Use pheromone traps. Rarely requires treatment on ornamental plants.
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Increase humidity with misting. Spray with water to dislodge. Use miticide only if severe infestation.
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Spray with strong water stream or insecticidal soap. Encourage ladybugs and parasitic wasps.
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Prune out infected branches (cankers with orange fruiting bodies) 12 inches below affected area. Sterilize tools between cuts. Destroy prunings.
Uses
Edible Hazelnuts
CulinaryThe small hazelnuts produced are edible and can be eaten fresh or roasted. While smaller and less productive than commercial hazel varieties, they provide a tasty harvest and attract wildlife. [source]
Winter Decoration & Catkin Cutting
HouseholdThe dramatic catkins and twisted branches make superb long-lasting floral arrangements for winter decoration. Branches can be cut and brought indoors to force catkins to open in a vase. [source]
Branch Material for Crafts
CraftThe naturally contorted branches can be harvested for dried arrangements, sculptural displays, and craft projects. The twisted wood is also traditionally used for walking sticks and divining rods. [source]
Wildlife Food Source
WildlifeHazelnuts provide important autumn food for squirrels, birds, and other wildlife. Catkins are early nectar and pollen sources for insects emerging in late winter. [source]
Traditional Herbal Uses
MedicinalHazel leaves and bark have been used traditionally in herbal medicine for their astringent properties, particularly for circulation and venous insufficiency, though scientific evidence is limited. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Hazelnuts mature in autumn (September-October). Harvest when husks turn brown and nuts begin dropping. Collect from ground daily to prevent animal predation. Crack outer husk to access nutmeat. Allow nuts to dry 2-3 weeks before storage. For ornamental use, catkins are enjoyed on the branch in late winter; cut branches can be brought indoors for forcing in water.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The twisted, spiral growth pattern of corkscrew hazel is a genetic trait (fasciation) that causes stems to flatten and curl; it becomes more exaggerated as the plant ages, sometimes creating complete spirals and loop-like shapes.
- 🌱 Corkscrew hazel was first discovered and selected in Europe in the 19th century and has been cultivated as an ornamental for nearly 200 years, making it a living heritage plant.
- 🌱 Hazel twigs have been traditionally used in dowsing (water witching) to locate underground water, and corkscrew hazel's naturally twisted branches make it especially prized for this folklore practice.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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