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Adding interest to a Corkscrew Hazel in summer

RFMRFM Posts: 5
Corkscrew Hazels are at their best in winter but can look decidedly drab in summer. Can anyone suggest a suitable plant that could climb up through a Corkscrew Hazel and flower during the summer before being cut back to near ground level in the winter? The hazel in question is about eight feet tall, with a spread of five feet, in a sunny position with fairly good drainage.

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  • UffUff Posts: 3,199
    I've cut mine back to 5 main stems and lifted the crowns so it's more tree like now. I decided initially that if I didn't like it then I'd grow a clematis through it but I'm happy with it at the moment so it will stay as it is. 
    It's too dark at the moment to take a pic but will do in the morning. This pic is with the garden light trained on it just now.


    SW SCOTLAND but born in Derbyshire
  • UffUff Posts: 3,199
    The contorted hazel this morning. It's still interesting at the moment and I prefer it without leaves. I might yet put a clematis through it.


    SW SCOTLAND but born in Derbyshire
  • RFMRFM Posts: 5
    edited April 2022

    As you see, our hazel is just coming into leaf now, somewhat ahead of yours because we are in Cornwall. But, as you know, the fully developed leaves are not particularly attractive, hence my wish to find a climber to add some interest. I have considered a clematis, although it would have to be one that flowered on the current year's growth and could be cut back in the autumn or winter. Any ideas?

  • UffUff Posts: 3,199
    Yes any of the group 3 clematis, summer to autumn flowering would be good. Lots to choose from depending on your colour scheme. 
    SW SCOTLAND but born in Derbyshire
  • hogweedhogweed Posts: 4,053
    I've got a clematis growing through mine.
    'Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement' - Helen Keller
  • This makes me want to go trim mine down and lift the crown haha. But I think my contorted hazel is a bit too young for that :D
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