Plant Library

Other Names:  Red-Leaved Contorted Hazelnut, European Filbert

Description:

A phenomenal find with twisted, contorted branch growth and rich burgundy-red foliage; a strong accent in both summer and in winter when the bare branches are at peak visibility; for solitary use only, cut branches are excellent in floral arrangements

Ornamental Features

Red Dragon Corkscrew Hazelnut is draped in stunning burgundy catkins hanging below the branches from late winter to early spring before the leaves. The flowers are excellent for cutting. It has attractive grayish green foliage with hints of burgundy which emerges dark red in spring. The large crinkled round leaves are highly ornamental and turn an outstanding red in the fall. The twisted dark brown bark and brown branches are extremely showy and add significant winter interest.

Landscape Attributes

Red Dragon Corkscrew Hazelnut is a multi-stemmed deciduous shrub with an upright spreading habit of growth. Its relatively coarse texture can be used to stand it apart from other landscape plants with finer foliage.

This shrub will require occasional maintenance and upkeep, and is best pruned in late winter once the threat of extreme cold has passed. Gardeners should be aware of the following characteristic(s) that may warrant special consideration;

• Suckering

Red Dragon Corkscrew Hazelnut is recommended for the following landscape applications;

• Accent
• General Garden Use

Planting & Growing

Red Dragon Corkscrew Hazelnut will grow to be about 8 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 10 feet. It tends to be a little leggy, with a typical clearance of 1 foot from the ground, and is suitable for planting under power lines. It grows at a medium rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for approximately 30 years.

This shrub does best in full sun to partial shade. It is very adaptable to both dry and moist locations, and should do just fine under average home landscape conditions. It is not particular as to soil type or pH. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments. This is a selected variety of a species not originally from North America.