About

Cornus controversa 'Variegata' is a compact deciduous tree characterized by its distinctly layered branching structure. The leaves are narrowly ovate, featuring broad cream margins that transition to yellow hues in the fall. In spring, it produces small cream flowers arranged in flat clusters, which are succeeded by 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
North-facing, South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H5

Plant details

Plant type
Trees
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
4-8 metres
Spread
4-8 metres
Time to full height
20-50 years
Suggested uses
Architectural

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