Variegated Red Twig Dogwood
Cornus alba 'Elegantissima'
Planted 2011
This little bush adds some visual interest to the garden with its gray-green leaves that have a creamy white edge. It produces white flowers on cymes in late spring. Its new growth has reddish bark which adds more visual interest, especially in the winter. It produces white fruit that is attractive to birds. It also tolerates dry soils once established.
| Height | Width | Zone | Growth Rate | Water Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 ft. | 6 ft. | 3-7 | Moderate | Medium |
Leaf
Opposite, simple, ovate. 3-6" long, gray-green with a white edge. No fall color.
Fruit
White drupe, produced mid-summer, attracts birds.
Flower
White cymes blooming in May-June. 4-5 petals.
Advantages
Tolerates dry soils once established, some pruning produces new growth with red branches. Bright red branches create winter interest.
Disadvantages
Susceptible to pests and diseases, may have heavy suckering.