Small, creamy-white flowers in May and June and dark green leaves, which turn reddish-purple in autumn and fall to reveal dark-maroon stems. The dramatic, dark stems of this dogwood are an excellent focal point in the winter garden. Tolerating a range of conditions including partial shade, it contrasts well with yellow-olive or red-stemmed varieties of dogwood.
How to care for Cornus alba Kesselringii:
In March cut the stems back hard to within 5-7cm (2-3in) from the ground and apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted garden compost or horse manure around the base of the plant.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
2.5m
Eventual spread:
1.5m
Position:
Full sun / light shade
Rate of growth:
Fast-growing
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
-
This shrub is deciduous so it will lose all its leaves in autumn, then fresh new foliage appears again each spring.