Variegated redtwig dogwood is a workhorse of a shrub. In the spring, bright gray-green leaves emerge with a wide, irregular margin of pure white. This variegation remains vibrant into fall. Once established, it is extremely adaptable and can grow in a wide range of soil types from clay to sand, wet to dry. It is one of few shrubs that can take very wet soil in winter and very dry soil in summer. Stems of this shrubby, deciduous dogwood are brightest when young. To encourage this new, red growth, cut some – or all – of the stems to about 6 inches above the ground in late winter. Use it to brighten a shady area. Or plant it in more sun to enjoy its autumnal display of gold, apricot and rose-red. In winter, enjoy the bright twigs in the garden or bring them indoors for holiday arrangements. This dogwood, also known as Cornus alba ‘Elegantissima,’ can grow to 10 feet high and wide, though it can easily kept smaller with regular pruning.
– www.GreatPlantPicks.org
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