SCIENTIFIC NAME: Cornus alba 'Elegantissima'

COMMON NAME: Variegated Red Twig Dogwood

GARDEN SIZE: 6 to 8 feet tall by 4 to 6 feet wide if left in natural form

GROWTH RATE: Moderate

USDA ZONE: 2 to 8

Full sun to part shade

WATER & SOIL: Prefers moist, well-drained soils, but adapts to moderately dry sites once established. Needs regular watering during the first 1–2 years, and benefits from occasional deep watering during prolonged dry periods. Best growth in organically rich, slightly acidic soil, though it may tolerate other soil types.

HABIT (FORM): Upright, multi-stemmed shrub; forms thickets of vivid red stems

FOLIAGE: Deciduous; variegated green leaves with creamy white margins, turning colorful in fall

FLOWERS: Fragrant white blooms in late spring to summer, followed by ornamental berries often tinged blue or green

PLANT ORIGIN: Central and Eastern Asia

WILDLIFE SUPPORT: May provide some nesting sites and shelter for birds and small mammals, but does not serve as much of a food source for local insects and wildlife.

FERTILIZING: Generally not required. If desired, apply a layer of organic compost in early spring to support growth and soil health.

PRUNING: Prune in late winter to maintain shape and encourage vibrant new growth. Remove 1/3 of oldest stems at the base every 2–3 years, or coppice to 6–12" for bold winter color. Also remove any dead or damaged wood.

TOXICITY FLAGS: Dogwoods are generally considered non-toxic, but inedible.

USES: Winter interest (colorful stems), mass planting, erosion control, foundation plantings, mixed borders