Cornus sanguinea

common dogwood
A deciduous shrub of upright, bushy habit, with young shoots reddish in winter, ovate leaves turning deep red in autumn, and small white flowers in flat clusters, followed by black berries
Other common names
blood twigcatteridge tree
see morecommon cornel
dog cherry
dog tree
dogberry
gadrise
gattar tree
gatten tree
houndberry tree
pegwood
prick timber
prickwood
skewer wood
swamp dogwood
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Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
1.5–2.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
Spring | Green | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Summer | White | Green | ||
Autumn | Red | Black | ||
Winter | Red |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or North–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Cornaceae
- Native to the UK
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- 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
- Europe
How to grow
Cultivation
Will grow in most soil conditions in sun or partial shade. For more information see winter stem colour cultivation
Propagation
Propagate by seed or hardwood cuttings
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Wildlife gardens
- Wildflower meadow
- Coastal
- Cottage and informal garden
- Hedging and screens
Pruning
Pests
Generally pest free but may be attacked by horse chestnut scale
Diseases
Generally disease free but cornus anthracnose may affect weak shoots
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