Cornus alba ‘Elegantissima’

Cornus alba ‘Elegantissima’ catches the eye with its striking variegated foliage. Creamy-white margins edge bright green leaves from spring. These hold colour well into autumn. Small creamy flowers appear in late spring. Then fiery red stems take over in winter for year-round interest.

This dogwood grows to 2-3m tall and wide with an upright, bushy habit. It spreads steadily by suckers. Plant in any moist but well-drained soil. Full sun gives the best stem colour. Partial shade works too. We’ve grown this reliably on our Thurning ground for years.

Prune hard every two to three years in late winter for fresh red stems. Cut back to near ground level. It suits mixed borders, winter hedges or waterside planting. Tough against cold winds near Peterborough.