Cornus alba 'Bud's Yellow' (Yellow-Twig Dogwood)

• Attracts: Bees and butterflies are attracted to the nectar-rich flowers in spring, while birds enjoy the small, white berries that appear after flowering.
• Wildlife Resistant: Generally deer resistant, though some browsing may occur in certain areas.

• Foliage Season: Spring to fall, with vibrant stems providing winter interest.
• Flowering Season: Late spring to early summer (May to June).
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 3-8

• Winter interest
• Borders and hedges
• Foundation plantings
• Pollinator gardens
• Mass plantings

• Color: Bright green, oval leaves.
• Form: Simple, opposite leaves with a slightly wavy texture.
• Fall Color: Leaves turn shades of burgundy, purple, and red in the fall before dropping to reveal the brilliant yellow stems.

• Color: Clusters of small, creamy-white flowers.
• Form: Flat-topped clusters of flowers, each about 2 inches across.
• Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer (May to June).
• Fragrance: Mildly fragrant.

• Planting Time: Best planted in early spring or fall when temperatures are cool and the soil is moist.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers moist, well-drained soil but is adaptable to a wide range of soil types, including clay. Thrives in slightly acidic to neutral soils.
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as in the nursery container, ensuring the crown is level with the soil surface.
• Spacing: Space plants 5-7 feet apart for hedges or mass plantings to allow for mature growth.

• Timing: Prune in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth and enhance stem color.
• Method: Remove one-third of the oldest stems each year to maintain the brightest yellow color. Thin out crowded branches and cut back to ground level if rejuvenation is needed.

• Watering Frequency: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Once established, Bud's Yellow is relatively drought-tolerant but prefers moist soil, especially during hot, dry periods.
• Soil Moisture: Prefers consistently moist, well-drained soil. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, especially in summer.

• Full sun to partial shade. Full sun promotes the best stem color, but the plant can tolerate light shade in hotter climates.

Cornus 'Bud’s Yellow' is not typically harvested for fruit or flowers, but it is highly valued for its bright yellow stems, especially in winter. Harvesting focuses on cutting branches for ornamental use, winter décor, or encouraging vigorous regrowth for the best stem color.

• Fertilization Time: Apply fertilizer in early spring before new growth begins.
• Fertilizer Type: Use a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) or organic compost to promote healthy growth and vibrant foliage.

• Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Keep mulch away from the base to prevent rot.
• Drought Tolerance: While Bud’s Yellow is relatively drought-tolerant once established, it thrives in consistently moist soil, especially in summer.
• Pests and Diseases: Generally pest-free, though it may occasionally be affected by aphids or leaf spot. Good air circulation and proper watering will help prevent issues.

• Pollination Type: Pollinated by bees and other insects.
• Seed Production: Can produce seeds if blooms are not deadheaded, though it is usually grown for its long-lasting flowers rather than seed production.

• Winterberry Holly (Ilex verticillata)
• Ornamental Grasses
• Red-Twig Dogwood (Cornus sericea)
• Astilbe