WHAT: Variegated redtwig dogwood is a workhorse shrub that asks for little care in return.
In the spring, bright gray-green leaves emerge with a wide, irregular margin of pure white. The variegation remains vibrant throughout summer.
WHY PLANT IT: Use it to brighten a shady area or plant it in more sun and enjoy its autumn display of gold, apricot and rose red.
Once the leaves have dropped in late fall, the vibrant red stems are revealed, adding interest to the winter scene.
Once established, it grows quickly and won’t miss armfuls of branches. Bring them indoors for arrangements or place them in containers of dormant perennials and decorate them with white lights for winter festivities.
WHERE: Variegated redtwig dogwood, also known as cornus alba Elegantissima, is extremely adaptable and grows in a range of soil types from clay to sand, wet to dry, once established. It is one of a few shrubs that can take very wet soil in winter and very dry soil in summer.
HOW: Stems on this shrubby dogwood are brightest red when they are young. To encourage this new growth, cut a few or all, if desired, to about six inches above the ground in late winter to stimulate fresh new twigs.
ACTUAL SIZE: This deciduous shrub can eventually reach 10 feet high and wide, but it can easily kept smaller with pruning. It gradually spreads from the base, sending out upright shoots with red twigs.
LEARN MORE: See www.greatplantpicks.org.
Source: Great Plant Picks
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