Pollination Info for Harry Lauder's Walking Stick (Corylus avellana 'Contorta')

Harry Lauder's Walking Stick, also known as Corylus avellana 'Contorta', is a deciduous shrub that is native to Europe and western Asia. It is known for its twisted and contorted branches that form an interesting and unique shape.

When it comes to pollination, Harry Lauder's Walking Stick is monoecious, which means that it has separate male and female flowers on the same plant. The male flowers are pendulous catkins that appear in late winter or early spring, while the female flowers are small and surrounded by leaf-like bracts.

For successful pollination to occur, the male and female flowers must be in close proximity to one another. This shrub is wind-pollinated, so no insects are necessary for pollination to occur.

Harry Lauder's Walking Stick is capable of self-pollination, but it is always a good idea to plant multiple shrubs in the same area to ensure adequate pollination. This is especially important if you want to harvest the nuts that this shrub produces, as cross-pollination tends to result in larger and more abundant nuts.

Overall, Harry Lauder's Walking Stick is a fascinating shrub that doesn't require any special pollination needs beyond being wind-pollinated. Planting multiple shrubs in close proximity will improve the chances of successful pollination and a bountiful harvest of nuts.

Harry Lauder's Walking Stick (Corylus avellana 'Contorta') - FAQ

What is Harry Lauder's Walking Stick?

Harry Lauder's Walking Stick, also known as Contorted Filbert or Corylus avellana 'Contorta', is a deciduous shrub grown for its twisted, contorted stems that reveal intricate patterns and textures.

How big does it grow?

Harry Lauder's Walking Stick typically grows up to 8-10 feet tall and wide, but can be kept smaller with regular pruning.

Where should I plant it?

Harry Lauder's Walking Stick prefers full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. It can be planted as a specimen plant or used in mixed borders.

How do I care for it?

• Water regularly during the first growing season to help establish a deep, extensive root system.
• Mulch around the base of the shrub to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Prune in late winter before new growth appears to remove any dead or damaged wood and shape the plant as desired.
• Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.

Does it produce fruit?

Yes, Harry Lauder's Walking Stick produces edible hazelnuts, but the nuts are small and often difficult to harvest due to the irregular shape of the branches.

Is it susceptible to any diseases or pests?

Corylus avellana 'Contorta' is generally a low-maintenance plant and is not highly susceptible to diseases or pests. However, it can be susceptible to bacterial blight, powdery mildew, and aphids.

Can it be propagated?

Yes, Harry Lauder's Walking Stick can be propagated by softwood or hardwood cuttings taken in spring or autumn. Grafting and layering are also effective propagation methods.

When does it bloom?

Harry Lauder's Walking Stick blooms in late winter to early spring with small, insignificant flowers that are not highly ornamental.

Is it deer-resistant?

No, Harry Lauder's Walking Stick is not deer-resistant.

Planting & Care for Harry Lauder's Walking Stick (Corylus avellana 'Contorta')

Planting

• Choose a location with well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
• If planting in a container, use a pot with drainage holes and a good quality potting mix.
• Dig a hole twice the width and depth of the plant's container.
• Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil, making sure that the top of the root ball is level with the ground.
• Water thoroughly.

Care

• Water regularly, especially during dry periods.
• Mulch around the base of the plant to help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
• Prune in late winter or early spring to remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches.
• Propagation can be done through hardwood cuttings taken in the late fall or early winter.
• Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
• Watch for common pests and diseases including aphids, spider mites, and hazelnut mosaic virus.

Follow these planting and care instructions to enjoy the unique twisted branches and interesting foliage of Harry Lauder's Walking Stick!