Cornus controversa

 

Giant Dogwood 

 

This species of Cornus originates in Japan, Korea and western China. After many years the Cornus controversa can grow to a height of 16 m., when placed in its natural habitat. Planted in gardens, it remains much smaller. The Cornus controversa is deciduous and grows one or more stems which branch out horizontally which gives the tree multiple levels. In most accounts the controversa is the alternifolia's big brother; this goes for the size of the leaves as well as the flower screens. The somewhat oval leaves are spread along young twigs and are about 7.5 to 15cm long and hang slightly. In autumn, the leaves turn purple/ red and curl before they shed. The young twigs turn red in autumn and winter. As the branches grow older they attain the same grey/brown color as the stem. Around the end of May, the controversa flowers in small cream white flowers, about 0.5 to 1cm across. These flowers are concentrated in screens of 10 to 15cm across. The flowers give off a light scent. After flowering the tree grows small black berries, much loved by birds. This Cornus can be planted nearly anywhere; it grows best in full sun and partial shade. Cornus controversa can be trimmed; although we recommend preserving the characteristic growth habit, with its multiple levels. Cornus controversa is winterproof. 

 

 

Cornus controversa (flower)