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Cornus alba L.
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

red-barked dogwood

A vigorous,suckering shrub with red stems, conspicuous in winter, and dark green foliage which takes on red or orange autumn tints. Flatheads ofinconspicuous, creamy flowers in late spring and early summer are followed by bunches of small, white berries

Other common names
Tartarian dogwood
Tatarian dogwood
see morewhite dogwood
white-berried dogwood
Synonyms
Swida alba
Cornus tatarica
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Size
Ultimate height
2.5–4 metres
Time to ultimate height
5–10 years
Ultimate spread
2.5–4 metres
Growing conditions
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Red Cream Green
Summer Red Cream Green
Autumn Red Orange Red White
Winter Red
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

East–facing or South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H7
Botanical details
Family
Cornaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Suckering
Genus

Cornus can be deciduous shrubs or trees, or creeping, woody-based perennials, some with brightly coloured young stems. Tiny flowers are borne in dense clusters, sometimes with showy bracts. Many have fine autumn colour

Name status

Correct

Plant range
E & N Asia

How to grow

Cultivation

Will grow in most soil conditions in sun or partial shade. For more information see winter stem colour cultivation or flowering dogwood cultivation

Propagation

Propagate by hardwood cuttings

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Coastal
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Cut flowers
  • Hedging and screens
Pruning

Pruning group 7

Pests

Generally pest-free but may be susceptible to horse chestnut scale

Diseases

May be susceptible to cornus anthracnose and honey fungus

Get involved

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