Cornus alba Elegantissima

Cornus alba Elegantissima (Dogwood)

Why Buy Me?

• Stems provide striking Autumn & Winter colour
• Colourful foliage

Growing Conditions

• Light: Prefers full sun to partial shade; best colour in full sun.

• Soil: Well-drained, moist, moderately fertile soil; tolerates a range of pH from acidic to neutral.

• Exposure: Tolerant of a variety of conditions, but sheltered from strong winds is ideal.

• Drought Tolerance: Moderately drought-tolerant once established but performs best with consistent moisture.

Cultivation & Care

• Planting Time: Plant in early spring or fall when the weather is cooler to help establish roots.

• Spacing: Space plants approximately 1.5–2.5 metres (5–8 feet) apart for best growth.

• Watering: Regular watering, especially during dry periods. Keep the soil consistently moist, particularly in the first growing season.

• Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to encourage healthy growth.

• Mulching: Apply a 5–7 cm (2–3 inch) layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

• Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins to maintain shape and encourage fresh, colourful stems.

• Propagation: Can be propagated from softwood cuttings in early summer or by layering.

Seasonal Interest

• Spring: New growth emerges with green and white variegated leaves, providing early season interest.

• Summer: Foliage remains lush and vibrant, with small white flowers appearing in clusters (cyme).

• Autumn: Foliage turns a rich purplish-red before falling; the stems start to take on a striking red hue.

• Winter: The bright red stems stand out in the winter landscape, providing visual interest during the colder months.

Wildlife & Garden Use

• Wildlife: Attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies when in bloom. The berries are enjoyed by birds.

• Garden Use: Excellent for hedging, borders, and shrub masses. It’s also effective in winter gardens due to its vibrant stem colour.

• Companion Plants: Pairs well with other deciduous shrubs such as Spiraea, Hydrangeas, and Berberis, as well as with evergreens like Boxwood for year-round interest.

Transform your home and garden with Cornus alba Elegantissima (Dogwood) —a must-have for any season. Order online now for quick and easy shopping, or drop by your local Thompson's Branch to explore it up close and get personalised recommendations.