About

This compact variety grows to a height of 1.5 to 2 meters. It features vibrant red stems, which are more pronounced in younger plants, and has variegated leaves with cream and green colors that may turn red in the fall. In late spring and early summer, it produces clusters of small white flowers, which are later succeeded by blue-white fruits.

About the genus

Cornus includes a variety of deciduous shrubs and trees, as well as prostrate, woody perennials, some featuring vibrant young stems. The small flowers appear in compact clusters, occasionally accompanied by prominent bracts. Several species display attractive foliage in the fall.

Growing conditions

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained, Poorly-drained, Well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing, North-facing, East-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H7

Plant details

Plant type
Shrubs
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
1.5-2.5 metres
Spread
1-1.5 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years
Suggested uses
Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens

Care notes

Cultivation
Will grow in most soil conditions in sun or partial shade. For more information see winter stem colour cultivation or flowering dogwood cultivation
Pruning
Pruning group 7 for colourful stems
Propagation
Propagate by hardwood cuttings
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free but may be susceptible to horse chestnut scale
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to cornus anthracnose and honey fungus