Cornus florida

Cornus florida

Cornus florida synonym Benthamidia florida is an extremely attractive shrub grown for its showy display of white flowers in late spring and early summer. This hardy slow growing variety will grow to a height of 6m if left unchecked, but can be kept smaller if necessary. The leaves are variegated light and dark green with bright yellow markings. In autumn the leaves turn lavender, red and scarlet and produces bright red strawberry- like fruits. Grows well in the British climate.

How to take care of Cornus florida

For best results soak the roots for approx 2 hrs before planting, water well after planting and for the next few weeks. Grows best in a soil with low lime content. Needs a sunny location and well-drained soil, they will tolerate partial shade.

This plant thrives in neutral to acid soils. Avoid chalky soils. To keep the size of the plant in shape and to encourage the most colourful bark, remove a third of the stems back to ground level each spring.

Fertilise in spring. Take cuttings in November to February.