Cornus | Heijnen Plants

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Buy cornus (dogwood)

The genus Cornus, commonly referred to as dogwood, encompasses a versatile group of shrubs known for their stunning floral displays and distinctive stem colors. These deciduous plants are an excellent addition to a variety of garden settings, from borders to group plantings, and are equally impressive when grown solitarily or as an underplanting. With flowering months that span from the vibrancy of spring to the milder days of winter, the dogwood's blossoms and foliage offer a canvas of changing colors throughout the year.

Key Features of Cornus

Cornus shrubs are celebrated for their ornamental value which includes:

A broad palette of flower colors ranging from pure white to deep pink.
Foliage that transitions through shades of green, grey, silver, and variegated tones in spring and summer, to a fiery array of red, purple, yellow, orange, and pink come autumn.
Red stems that maintain visual interest in the garden, even during the starkness of winter.
Summer and autumn fruit that adds a splash of color with hues of pink, red, white, black, and blue, attracting birds and wildlife.
Adaptability to a wide range of locations, thriving in full sun, partial shade, or full shade, and requiring only average water needs.
The genus' deciduous nature ensures a dynamic changing landscape with the seasons.

Tips for Growing and Caring for Cornus

To ensure the health and beauty of your Cornus shrubs:

Plant Cornus in a well-draining soil to prevent root rot and ensure they receive adequate but not excessive water.
Opt for a spot where the shrubs can receive sunlight or partial shade to encourage the best foliage and flower production.
Prune back Cornus shrubs at the end of winter or early spring. Some species may only require minimal pruning to remove any dead or damaged wood and to shape the plant.
Propagation can be achieved through various methods such as hardwood cuttings in autumn to winter, division in spring or autumn, grafting, softwood cuttings in spring and early summer, and semi-ripe cuttings.
While dogwoods are not drought-resistant, maintaining a regular watering schedule during dry periods will keep them thriving.
Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring to provide the necessary nutrients for growth and flower production.

With their long-lasting appeal and low-maintenance requirements, Cornus shrubs are an excellent choice for gardeners looking to create a year-round visual spectacle.

Types

Embrace the enchanting allure of dogwoods, a collection of plants celebrated for their striking bark and foliage. Ideal for adding texture and color to your garden throughout the year, dogwoods are a versatile choice for crafting an outdoor space that is both vibrant and serene. Each species offers its own unique charm, ensuring that there is a perfect match for every aesthetic.

The Cornus alba 'Sibirica', commonly known as the Siberian dogwood, is distinguished by its vibrant stems that bring a splash of color to the winter landscape. In the flowering months of May and June, it is adorned with clusters of white flowers that add to its ornamental value. This hardy shrub is prized for its versatility and ability to thrive in a variety of soil conditions, making it an exemplary choice for gardeners seeking to introduce visual interest throughout the seasons.
The Cornus controversa 'Variegata', often referred to as the wedding cake tree due to its distinctive, tiered habit, is a striking ornamental plant. It earns its moniker from the horizontal layers of branches that create a unique, layered profile. In the months of June and July, this variegated table dogwood is festooned with clusters of small, white flowers, contributing to the plant's breathtaking display. The elegant variegated foliage, edged with creamy white, provides a bright contrast in any garden setting, ensuring that it remains a focal point throughout the growing season.
The Cornus sanguinea 'Midwinter Fire', more commonly known as dogwood, is a deciduous shrub that offers a stunning display with its fiery red and orange stems that stand out in the winter landscape. During the flowering months of May and June, it presents a beautiful contrast with its delicate white blossoms. This variety of dogwood is particularly noted for its vibrant stem color, which becomes increasingly pronounced as the colder months approach, making it a captivating addition to any garden seeking year-round interest.

Ideal placement of a Cornus

For optimal growth, Cornus species exhibit a preference for sunny to partially shaded locations, where they can bask in the gentle warmth of the sun yet also enjoy shelter from its full intensity. They can, however, adapt to full shade, although this may affect their vibrant foliage and flowering patterns. These deciduous shrubs demonstrate versatility in their location requirements and are known to thrive in a variety of light conditions, making them an excellent choice for diverse garden designs. Ensuring an environment with average water availability is crucial to maintain their health and aesthetic appeal.

Planting a Cornus

Planting Cornus requires selecting a location that can range from full sun to shade to accommodate its adaptability. Ensure the soil is well-drained and fertile to foster healthy growth. When planting, space the shrubs to allow ample room for their mature spread. Dig a hole as deep as the pot and twice as wide, then gently place the dogwood in the hole, filling it with soil and watering thoroughly. After planting, regular watering is essential, particularly in dry periods, to establish a deep, extensive root system. Mulching can help retain soil moisture and regulate temperature extremes.

Fertilising a Cornus

To ensure the vigorous growth and profuse flowering that this species is known for, it is essential to provide a balanced fertilization regime. Apply a general-purpose fertilizer early in the spring to kickstart the growing season. This should be followed by a second application during midsummer to sustain the plant's energy needs as it prepares for the autumn show of foliage and fruit.

When fertilizing, spread the fertilizer evenly around the base of the shrub, avoiding direct contact with the stems and foliage to prevent burn. Watering after application helps to distribute the nutrients into the soil. With the right nutrition, this shrub will reward you with a stunning display of flowers, fruits, and fall foliage colors. Regular fertilization also promotes robust stem growth, which is particularly desirable for varieties with colorful winter stems.

Pruning a Cornus

Pruning is a task that can be approached with a light hand when it comes to Cornus, as this genus is quite resilient and maintains its shape naturally. However, for those desiring to encourage vigorous stem growth, particularly in varieties with colorful winter bark, a hard prune at the end of winter or early in spring is beneficial. This involves cutting the shrub back to a few buds per stem, which stimulates the growth of new shoots with vibrant colors.

Watering a Cornus

Cornus species require consistent moisture to thrive, particularly when they're establishing their root systems in a new location. These shrubs benefit from regular watering, ensuring the soil remains evenly moist but not waterlogged. During periods of dry weather, the moisture level should be monitored more closely, and additional watering may be necessary to maintain the ideal conditions. It's advisable to water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can help in preventing potential issues. Mulching around the base can also help retain soil moisture and keep the roots cool.

The characteristics of a Cornus

One often overlooked aspect of caring for Cornus is its adaptability to various soil pH levels, from mildly acidic to neutral. This versatility ensures that the dogwood can thrive in a variety of garden settings. Moreover, these species are known for their striking bark, which exudes visual warmth during the colder months. To maintain the vibrancy of the bark, older stems should be periodically removed to stimulate the growth of new ones, thus preserving the plant's aesthetic appeal.

Separating/dividing a Cornus

For those looking to propagate the diverse and vibrant Cornus, division is an excellent method. This is best undertaken during the cooler months of spring or autumn. Carefully lift the shrub from the soil, ensuring to minimize root disturbance. Proceed to divide the root mass into several sections, each with a fair amount of roots and shoots. Replant these divisions at the same soil depth they were originally growing. This technique stimulates new growth and contributes to the overall health and longevity of the shrub, ensuring a continued display of its striking foliage and stems.

The ideal variety for you Buy cornus (dogwood)

Discover the enchanting beauty of Cornus, a diverse genus that brings year-round interest to any garden. With its stunning floral bracts, vibrant autumn foliage, and striking winter stems, this plant is a captivating addition that offers a visual feast throughout the seasons. Embrace the timeless elegance of Cornus for an exquisite garden display.

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