Overview
Cornus sanguinea is a bushy shrubs in the genus Cornus, part of the Cornaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 1.5-2.5 metres tall and 1.5-2.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 5-10 years. Cornus sanguinea grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. It is attractive to pollinators. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, wildflower meadow and wildlife gardens. It is native to Europe.
About
Cornus sanguinea is a deciduous shrub that typically reaches a height of around 3 meters. It exhibits an upright growth form, with young shoots displaying a reddish-green hue during the winter months. The leaves are ovate and mid-green, transitioning to a deep red as autumn approaches. In summer, this plant produces small white flowers that appear 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
Best soil and position for Cornus
- 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
- South-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Cornus sanguinea size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Shrubs
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 1.5-2.5 metres
- Spread
- 1.5-2.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 5-10 years
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens
- Native to
- Europe
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Cornus sanguinea
- 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
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed or 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
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Cornus sanguinea?
Will grow in most soil conditions in sun or partial shade. For more information see winter stem colour cultivation or flowering dogwood cultivation.
Where is the best place to plant Cornus sanguinea?
Cornus sanguinea prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Cornus sanguinea need?
Cornus sanguinea is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to well-drained.
How do I prune Cornus sanguinea?
Pruning group 7.
How big does Cornus sanguinea grow?
Cornus sanguinea reaches a height of 1.5-2.5 metres and a spread of 1.5-2.5 metres. It takes around 5-10 years to reach full size.
Is Cornus sanguinea hardy in the UK?
Cornus sanguinea has a UK hardiness rating of H6.
How do I propagate Cornus sanguinea?
Propagate by seed or hardwood cuttings.
Is Cornus sanguinea good for pollinators?
Yes — Cornus sanguinea attracts and supports pollinators such as bees and other beneficial insects.