Cornus controversa Variegata (Wedding Cake Tree)

Graceful and spectacular, Cornus controversa 'Variegata' (Wedding Cake Tree) is a small deciduous tree with beautifully layered horizontal branches. The stems are red and the ovate green leaves are adorned with bright creamy margins. In late spring, small, creamy-white flowers appear in flattened clusters and provide a great floral show. The blossoms give way to black berries in late summer, which persist into fall, unless devoured by hungry birds. In summer, its canopy of layered branches provides shade and beauty. In the fall, it offers lovely yellow color before the leaves shed to the ground. One of the most stunning variegated trees, this Giant Dogwood makes a wonderful focal point for a small to medium-sized garden.

• Winner of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society
• Grows up to 35-40 ft. high and across (10-12 m).
• Performs best in full sun or part shade in acidic, organically rich, medium moisture, well-drained soils. Some afternoon shade is welcomed in hot summer areas.
• Generally pest and disease free. Watch for horse chestnut scale.
• Great choice as a specimen or in lawns, shrub borders, or foundation plantings.
• Propagate by grafting