Remarkable tree with very twisted branches, twigs and leaves. Sometimes also cultivated as a shrub. Young trees have an oval crown but as the tree ages, a more round shape develops. When mature, the yellowish grey trunk is deeply grooved. The young twigs twist like a cork screw and are yellowish green. The lanceolate leaves are bright green on top and greyish green underneath. The leaves are 7 - 14 cm long and 1.2 cm wide with a finely serrated edge. The leaves are also very curly, rendering the grey underside very visible. The flowers appear before the leaves emerge. 'Tortuosa' is a decorative tree especially in the winter, with its twisted, yellow branches. The branches are displayed in vases particularly during Easter.