What: Cornus × elwinortonii, commonly called Venus dogwood. This newer dogwood boasts a profusion of large, creamy white flowers with a nubbin of green in the center. The flowers, or bracts, may be up to 6 inches across and stand out against the lustrous green foliage. In autumn the fruit are small red orbs, somewhat reminiscent of strawberries, and the leaves offer a palette of red, orange, and purple.
Where: Plant in rich, well-drained soil with full sun to light or open shade.
Size: This deciduous tree grows to 25 feet tall by 25 feet wide when mature.
Care: Water frequently to regularly until established, at least two years. After that, water regularly to occasionally in summertime depending on the soil. If the soil is sandy and extremely well-drained or dry, water regularly or frequently during dry weather.
— Richie Steffens, Great Plant Picks
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