Which plant is referred to as Harry Lauder's Walking Stick?

Harry Lauder's Walking Stick is the common name for Corylus avellana 'Contorta,' a cultivar of the European hazel that is characterized by its unique, twisted branches. This ornamental shrub is highly valued for its striking and unusual growth habit, which resembles a walking stick. The contorted stems provide visual interest throughout the seasons, making it a popular choice in gardens and landscapes.

The plant's distinctive form is most pronounced in winter when it displays its gnarled structure against a backdrop of snow or bare ground. In early spring, the catkins appear, further enhancing its ornamental value. This cultivar's twisted architecture stands out in any garden, providing both a sculpture-like element and a conversation piece.

The other options, while also notable plants, do not carry the moniker associated with Harry Lauder. Cotinus coggygria 'Royal Purple' is admired for its vibrant foliage and fluffy flower clusters but is distinct in its characteristics and does not share the same unique contorted form. Cornus sericea, known for its red stems and use in erosion control, and Chaenomeles speciosa, commonly known as flowering quince with its beautiful blossoms, also lack the twisting branches that define Harry Lauder's Walking Stick.