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 4.0 — Cornus 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 4.0 — Cornus
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
- Cornus florida 'Fastigiata'Flowering Dogwood

- Cornus kousa 'Tsukuba No Mine'Kousa Dogwood

- Cornus mas 'Kazanlak' (F)cornelian cherry 'Kasanlaker'

- Cornus sanguinea 'Midwinter Fire'Common dogwood
