About
Cornus amomum is a robust, multi-stemmed deciduous shrub that develops an open, rounded form as it matures. Its mid to dark-green foliage emerges in spring and persists through summer, transitioning to shades of red and purple in the fall before dropping off, exposing the red-purple stems that remain visible during winter. In spring and summer, the plant produces clusters of creamy-white flowers, which give way to white berries that mature to blue, drawing the attention of birds.
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
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
- Plant type
- Shrubs
- Habit
- Suckering
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 2.5-4 metres
- Spread
- 2.5-4 metres
- Time to full height
- 5-10 years
- Suggested uses
- Architectural, Cottage and informal garden
- Native to
- E N America
Care notes
- Cultivation
- Will grow in most soil conditions in sun or partial shade. For more information see flowering dogwood cultivation
- Pruning
- Pruning group 7. Remove suckers if required to prevent spread
- Propagation
- Propagate by hardwood cuttings, semi-ripe cuttings, or layering
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free but may be susceptible to horse chestnut scale
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to cornus anthracnose and honey fungus