About

Cornus wilsoniana is a deciduous to semi-evergreen shrub or small tree characterized by its grey-green leaves and distinctive bark that transitions from green to grey and white as it matures. In spring to early summer, it produces clusters of small white flowers, followed by purple-black berries in the fall.

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
Loam
Soil pH
Acid
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H4

Plant details

Plant type
Trees, Shrubs
Habit
Spreading branched
Foliage
Deciduous, Semi evergreen
Height
8-12 metres
Spread
wider than 8 metres
Time to full height
10-20 years
Suggested uses
Architectural, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden
Native to
C & S China

Care notes

Cultivation
Grow in fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained, acid to neutral soil in sun or partial shade. It performs best in cooler summer climates, keep consistently moist and provide adequate mulch. . For more advice, see flowering dogwood cultivation
Pruning
Pruning group 1
Propagation
Propagate by softwood or hardwood cuttings or 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