CORNUS ALBA ELEGANTISSIMA / SILVER EDGE DOGWOOD

CORNUS ALBA ‘ELEGANTISSIMA’ / SILVER EDGE DOGWOOD

A Stunning, Variegated Shrub with Four-Season Interest

Cornus alba ‘Elegantissima’, also known as Silver Edge Dogwood, is a hardy deciduous shrub prized for its striking variegated foliage, bright red stems, and multi-season appeal. With creamy-white edged leaves, clusters of white spring flowers, and red-purple fall color, this adaptable shrub provides year-round beauty, making it an excellent choice for borders, hedges, and winter landscapes.

Why Choose ‘Elegantissima’ Dogwood?

• Attractive Variegated Foliage: Green leaves with creamy-white margins brighten the garden all season.
• Striking Red Winter Stems: Provides bold color and contrast in the winter landscape.
• Multi-Season Interest: White flowers in spring, colorful foliage in fall, and vibrant stems in winter.
• Low Maintenance & Cold Hardy: Thrives in harsh conditions and adapts to various soil types.

Key Features:

• Showy Foliage: Elegant variegated leaves add texture and brightness to gardens.
• Clusters of White Flowers: Small, creamy-white blooms appear in late spring, followed by small berries that attract birds.
• Brilliant Red Stems: Stems turn vivid red in winter, creating a stunning contrast against snow.
• Drought & Moisture Tolerant: Adapts well to both wet and dry soils.

Specifications:

• Plant Size: Typically grows 6–8 feet tall and wide.
• Hardiness: USDA Zones 3–7, excellent for cold climates.
• Sunlight: Prefers full sun to partial shade; best stem color develops in full sun.
• Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained soil; tolerates clay and wet conditions.

Ideal Uses:

• Hedges & Screens: Forms a dense, attractive natural barrier.
• Winter Interest Plantings: Adds vibrant color to snowy landscapes.
• Mixed Borders & Woodland Gardens: Pairs well with evergreens and other colorful shrubs.
• Rain Gardens & Moist Areas: Thrives in damp conditions, making it ideal for low-lying spots.

Cornus alba ‘Elegantissima’ is a versatile, low-maintenance shrub that delivers striking beauty in all seasons. Its bold foliage, vibrant winter stems, and adaptability make it a must-have for gardeners looking to enhance their landscape with year-round appeal.