Consulta Plantas

Care of the shrub Cornus alba or White dogwood

The genus Cornus, family Cornaceae, includes 40 species of deciduous shrubs and trees native to temperate and cold regions of the Northern Hemisphere. Some species are: Cornus alba, Cornus sanguinea, Cornus capitata, Cornus kousa, Cornus florida, Cornus mas, Cornus alternifolia.

Common names: Siberian dogwood, Red-barked dogwood, White dogwood. This species is native to Siberia, northern China and Korea.

They are erect deciduous shrubs that reach 4 meters (13.12 feet) in height. They are interesting for their elliptical leaves ending in points, of opposite disposition and very marked nerves; they can be deep green or variegated cream or yellow; in autumn they turn yellowish or orange. The small white flowers appear in inflorescences in the form of terminal corymbs. They bloom from mid-spring to early summer. The young reddish stems of some varieties are also decorative. The fruits are bluish white.

They are used to form bushy groups on lawns or bordering paths. If the climate is Mediterranean, they can be grown in semi-shady understory. They are suitable for large pots on terraces and patios.

Cornus alba can be grown in full sun exposure if the climate is cool-temperate; In regions with a Mediterranean climate, they should be placed in semi-shade. They resist cold and frost.

They can grow in any soil that contains organic matter. Transplantation or planting is done in early spring.

Water regularly so that the substrate always retains some moisture but never flood (they do not tolerate drought).

Fertilize each year with manure, humus or compost in early spring.

Prune intensively in early spring.

They are plants quite resistant to pests and diseases; you just have to watch that they have the appropriate humidity.

They propagate by seeds sown in spring in a protected seedbed, by cuttings or by division.

Images of the shrub Cornus alba or White dogwood