Cornus alba ‘Elegantissima' (Red-Twig Dogwood)

Pollinators: The white flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, providing an essential food source in early summer.

Spring to Summer: In spring and summer, 'Elegantissima' produces small, white flowers in clusters that attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Its foliage is green with creamy white margins, which adds a delicate contrast to the landscape.

🏡 Foundation Planting

• Its elegant variegated leaves (green with creamy-white edges) add brightness and contrast near homes, walls, or fences.
  
• Works well as a backdrop plant or softener for building lines.
  

🌳 Mixed Shrub Borders

• Provides seasonal interest: lush foliage in spring/summer, red stems in winter, and occasional white berries.
  
• Pairs beautifully with evergreens, hydrangeas, or flowering shrubs for layered structure.
  

🛤 Hedging & Screening

• Can be used in informal hedges for privacy or to define garden spaces.
  
• Dense growth habit makes it suitable for windbreaks or visual barriers.
  

🌲 Winter Interest Gardens

• Red stems provide dramatic contrast against snow and dormant landscapes.
  
• Best effect is achieved when planted en masse or in groups.
  

🐝 Wildlife Gardens

• Attracts birds with its small white berries in late summer to early fall.
  
• Provides cover and nesting spots for small wildlife.
  

🪴 Rain Gardens or Moist Soils

• Tolerant of damp or clay soils, making it excellent for rain gardens or low spots in the yard.
  
• Thrives in sites that may be challenging for other shrubs.
  

🌺 Specimen Plants

• The bold, creamy variegated foliage makes it a showy standalone plant in small gardens or courtyards.
  
• Looks particularly attractive when underplanted with perennials or groundcovers that highlight its leaf tones.
  

🚜 Erosion Control

• Spreading root system and suckering habit make it ideal for slopes or streambanks, helping to stabilize soil.

Leaves: The leaves of Cornus alba ‘Elegantissima’ are medium green with white edges, creating an eye-catching contrast. The leaves turn a reddish-purple in the fall, enhancing its multi-seasonal appeal.

Small, flat-topped clusters of white flowers appear in late spring to early summer. These flowers are not only visually attractive but also a great resource for local pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Best Time to Plant: Early spring to fall is the best time to plant Cornus alba ‘Elegantissima’ when the soil is warm and conditions are ideal for root establishment.

Planting Method: Choose a well-drained, moist location for planting. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and deep enough to accommodate the roots. Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil, ensuring the root collar is level with the surrounding soil. Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil.

Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or damaged branches, and trim back the previous year’s growth to maintain shape. Pruning will encourage fresh, colorful new stems and promote healthy growth.

Maintenance: Regular pruning will help keep the shrub compact and prevent it from becoming too leggy or overgrown.

Cornus alba ‘Elegantissima’ prefers consistently moist soil, especially during the first growing season. Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, but avoid soggy conditions. Once established, it is moderately drought-tolerant, but it will perform best with regular watering during hot, dry spells.

This shrub thrives in full sun to partial shade. For the brightest stem color and the best overall growth, plant it in full sun. However, it can tolerate some shade, though it may not develop as vibrant red stems or produce as many flowers in lower light conditions.

Not typically harvested for ornamental purposes, but the berries may be attractive to birds in the late summer and fall.

Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth. If you notice yellowing leaves in the summer, a light feeding of nitrogen-rich fertilizer can help green up the foliage.

Soil Type: Prefers well-drained, moist soil but is adaptable to a variety of soil types, including clay and sandy soils.

Cold-Tolerant: Very cold-hardy, suitable for USDA Zones 3–8.

Disease Resistance: Generally resistant to most pests and diseases, though it can be susceptible to root rot in overly wet conditions.

Deer Resistance: Moderate. Deer may nibble on the leaves but are less likely to damage the plant significantly.

Cornus alba ‘Elegantissima’ is self-pollinating, meaning it doesn’t require another plant to produce flowers or berries, although it may benefit from nearby pollinators.

Perennials: Pair it with low-growing plants like Hostas, Astilbes, or Heuchera to add texture and contrast.

Shrubs: Combine with other deciduous shrubs like Spiraea or Weigela to provide a diverse range of textures and colors.

Trees: Works well in a mixed border with flowering trees such as Magnolia or Cercis for added seasonal interest.