About

Cornus controversa 'Green Carpet' is a compact, layered tree that reaches heights between 0.6 m and 1 m (up to 1.5 m). Its leaves are elliptic and pointed, showcasing a glossy green hue that transitions to a vibrant red in the fall. The tree produces delicate corymbs of small white flowers that create a light canopy above the foliage. In autumn, it is also adorned with black berries.

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
H5

Plant details

Plant type
Trees, Shrubs
Habit
Spreading branched
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
1-1.5 metres
Spread
1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height
10-20 years
Suggested uses
City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, 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 or semi-hardwod 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