Hello MaryRose,

Twisted filbert, also known as Harry Lauder’s Walking Stick, (Corylus avellana’) is an interesting tree which grows best in moist, rich soil in full sun to part shade. Read more here: https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=442447&isprofile=1&gen=Corylus

Unfortunately, it susceptible to filbert blight which may be the problem with your plant. Read more here: https://www.purduelandscapereport.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Contorted-Filbert-A-Gnarly-Problem-Plant-2.pdf

This article provides advice on how to treat the problem. However, MSU Extension’s Plant and Pest Diagnostic Lab will able to provide more advice. To learn how to submit a picture/sample go to: https://www.canr.msu.edu/pestid/

Thank you for contacting Ask Extension.