Overview

Cornus alba 'Elegantissima' is a deciduous shrub in the genus Cornus, part of the Cornaceae family. It typically grows around 3.0 m tall. Cornus alba 'Elegantissima' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include hedges, borders and specimen plant. It is native to Siberia, northern China and Korea.

About

Cornus alba, the red-barked, white or Siberian dogwood, is a species of flowering plant in the family Cornaceae, native to Siberia, northern China and Korea. It is a large deciduous surculose (suckering) shrub that can be grown as a small tree.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0Cornus alba

About the genus

Cornus is a genus of about 30–60 species of woody plants in the family Cornaceae, commonly known as dogwoods or cornels, which can generally be distinguished by their blossoms, berries, and distinctive bark. Most are deciduous trees or shrubs, but a few species are nearly herbaceous perennial subshrubs, and some species are evergreen. Several species have small heads of inconspicuous flowers surrounded by an involucre of large, typically white petal-like bracts, while others have more open clusters of petal-bearing flowers.

Wikipedia contributors, "Cornus", CC BY-SA 4.0Cornus

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Cornus

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Sandy, Loamy, Clay
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained, Wet
UK hardiness
H7

Plant details

Cornus alba 'Elegantissima' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Deciduous shrub
Height
3.0 m
Suggested uses
Hedges, borders, specimen plant
Native to
Siberia, northern China, Korea

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Cornus alba 'Elegantissima'

Cultivation
Prefers moist, well-drained soil; tolerates wet conditions; benefits from mulching
Pruning
Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and encourage new growth
Propagation
Softwood cuttings in summer, hardwood cuttings in winter, layering

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Cornus alba 'Elegantissima'?

Prefers moist, well-drained soil; tolerates wet conditions; benefits from mulching.

Where is the best place to plant Cornus alba 'Elegantissima'?

Cornus alba 'Elegantissima' prefers full sun.

What soil does Cornus alba 'Elegantissima' need?

Cornus alba 'Elegantissima' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to wet.

How do I prune Cornus alba 'Elegantissima'?

Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and encourage new growth.

How big does Cornus alba 'Elegantissima' grow?

Cornus alba 'Elegantissima' reaches a height of 3.0 m.

Is Cornus alba 'Elegantissima' hardy in the UK?

Cornus alba 'Elegantissima' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.

How do I propagate Cornus alba 'Elegantissima'?

Softwood cuttings in summer, hardwood cuttings in winter, layering.

More in the Cornus genus

Browse all Cornus