About

Cornus controversa 'Frans Type' is a dynamic small tree characterized by its horizontally arranged branches, reaching heights of up to 5 meters. The leaves are alternately arranged, oval-shaped with pointed tips, featuring narrow white edges that contrast with a gray-green center, transitioning to shades of pink and red in the fall. In May, it produces flat clusters of small white flowers, which are self-fertile. These blooms give way to small blue-black berries in the autumn.

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, Well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, East-facing, West-facing, North-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H4

Plant details

Plant type
Trees
Habit
Spreading branched
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
4-8 metres
Spread
4-8 metres
Time to full height
10-20 years
Suggested uses
Architectural, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden

Care notes

Cultivation
Grow in well-drained soil in sun or partial shade. For more advice, see flowering dogwood cultivation
Pruning
Pruning group 1
Propagation
Propagate by grafting
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free but may be susceptible to horse chestnut scale
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to cornus anthracnose and honey fungus