Cornus controversa 'Variegata'
wedding cake tree
Known as the wedding cake tree, because of its distinctive, horizontal, tiered habit, this tree makes a lovely focal point for a small to medium-sized garden. It has bright green leaves with bold, creamy-white margins, which turn red-purple in autumn, and produces clusters of white flowers in June.
Although it tolerates dappled shade, Cornus controversa 'Variegata' it performs best in fertile, moisture-retentive soil in full sun.
Please keep in mind that the tiered branching structure develops over time, so plants purchased in a 3lt pot will only be approx 20cm tall, and therefore will not have tiered branches just yet. Given time however, they will all make magnificent, splaying specimens.
Although it tolerates dappled shade, Cornus controversa 'Variegata' it performs best in fertile, moisture-retentive soil in full sun.
Please keep in mind that the tiered branching structure develops over time, so plants purchased in a 3lt pot will only be approx 20cm tall, and therefore will not have tiered branches just yet. Given time however, they will all make magnificent, splaying specimens.
How to care for Cornus controversa Variegata:
Plant in fertile, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil, adding compost or manure at planting. Position in sun or light shade with space to show off the layered shape. Water regularly while establishing and during dry spells.
Pruning is not needed, as it spoils the natural habit – just remove dead, damaged or crossing branches in late winter if required.
Pruning is not needed, as it spoils the natural habit – just remove dead, damaged or crossing branches in late winter if required.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
8m
Eventual spread:
8m
Position:
Full sun / light shade
Rate of growth:
Average
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Fully hardy
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This shrub is deciduous so it will lose all its leaves in autumn, then fresh new foliage appears again each spring.
