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Cornus controversa, Swida controversa
Giant Dogwood, Wedding Cake TreeFamily: Cornaceae
Origin: Japan, China
Dense clusters of glossy foliage turn brilliant shades of purples, oranges, and reds in autumn and is accompanied by new, cream colored twigs.
Cornus controversa, also known as Giant Dogwood, is native to Japan and China. It is a large shrub that grows anywhere from 5-10 feet tall or a small tree from 10-20 feet tall. In order to thrive, this hardy ornamental plant should be grown in full sun or semi-shade and given regular or moderate watering.
This deciduous shrub produces large, off-white flowers in summer which attract butterflies and hummingbirds. It is characterized by beautiful, ornamental foliage that changes color in autumn to shades of purples, oranges and reds, as well as new, cream-colored twigs. The mature plant is cold hardy in USDA Zone 6-9.
For planting in cold regions, Cornus controversa can best be grown in a pot which will help to protect the roots during the coldest months of the year. The container can be moved indoors to a cool but sunny area to give the plant a much needed break from harsh winter weather. Once the danger of frost is gone and the temperatures are warm enough, the pot should be moved back to its original location and allowed to thrive in full sun or semi-shade with regular or moderate watering.
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