Cornus controversa (Giant Dogwood)
Botanical names: Cornus controversa, Swida controversa
Common names: Giant Dogwood, Wedding Cake Tree
Family: Cornaceae
Origin: Japan, China
USDA Zone: 6-9
Plant form: Large bush or small tree
Mature height: 10-20 ft
Sun exposure: Full sun or bright light indoor; semi-shade
Cold tolerance: Tolerates light freezing to about 30°F for short periods (mature plants). Young plants must be protected.
Watering: Regular; moderate
Flower color: White and off-white
Suitable for: Outdoors in the suitable USDA zone; small gardens, containers, and indoor growing
Foliage color: Ornamental foliage
Foliage: Deciduous
Wildlife: Attracts butterflies and hummingbirdsDense 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.
Similar plants: Cornus controversa (Giant Dogwood)
