Cornus alba 'Gouchaultii' - Gouchaultii Variegated Dogwood

The flowers of 'Gouchaultii' attract bees and butterflies, while its dense branching provides shelter for birds and small wildlife. In late summer, small white berries may form, which are enjoyed by birds. The shrub also offers excellent winter interest with its colorful stems, providing a habitat for wildlife during the colder months.

• Seasonality: Deciduous; drops its leaves in winter and regrows in spring.
• Flowering Season: Late spring to early summer (May-June)

🏡 Foundation and Accent Planting

• The creamy-yellow, green, and pink variegated leaves make it a standout near patios, walls, or entrances.
  
• Its bushy form brings texture and movement to static architectural spaces.
  

🌳 Mixed Shrub Borders

• Offers multiseason appeal with spring-summer variegated foliage, late summer berries, and bold red winter stems.
  
• Blends well with other deciduous and evergreen shrubs.
  

🎨 Winter Interest Gardens

• Red twigs are especially effective in snowy or muted landscapes.
  
• Plant in groups or drifts to highlight the bright winter stems.
  

🪴 Informal Hedges and Screens

• Naturally dense growth makes it effective as a seasonal privacy screen or informal hedge.
  

🌧 Rain Gardens and Moist Sites

• Tolerant of wet soils and adaptable to various soil conditions, making it suitable for low-lying or poorly drained areas.
  

🐦 Wildlife Gardens

• Provides food (berries) and shelter for birds and small animals.
  
• Supports local biodiversity while adding ornamental value.

The large, ovate leaves of Cornus alba 'Gouchaultii' are variegated with a vibrant green center and creamy-yellow margins that develop a pink tint as they emerge in spring. The variegation remains throughout the growing season, adding brightness and contrast to the garden. In the fall, the leaves turn a brilliant golden-yellow, enhancing the shrub's seasonal appeal.

• 'Gouchaultii' produces clusters of small, creamy-white flowers in late spring. While the flowers are not the main attraction, they add a soft touch of color and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

• Planting Season: Best planted in early spring or fall when temperatures are cool, allowing the shrub to establish roots before the growing season or winter dormancy.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, moderately fertile soil but is adaptable to a variety of soil types, including clay and loamy soils. It tolerates wet conditions, making it a good choice for areas near water features or poorly drained spots.
• Spacing: Space plants 5-7 feet apart to allow for mature spread, especially if used in mass plantings or as a hedge.

Planting Instructions:

1. Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball.
2. Place the plant in the hole with the top of the root ball level with the soil surface.
3. Backfill with soil, tamp gently, and water thoroughly.
4. Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pruning is essential for maintaining the vibrant red stems of 'Gouchaultii'. Prune in late winter or early spring to remove older stems and encourage new growth, which provides the brightest color. Cut about one-third of the oldest stems back to the base annually to rejuvenate the plant. For a more compact shape, light pruning throughout the growing season can help maintain its form.

Cornus alba 'Gouchaultii' prefers regular watering, especially during the first growing season. Water deeply and consistently to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Once established, it is moderately drought-tolerant but will perform best with regular watering during dry spells.

Thrives in full sun to partial shade. For the brightest stem color and best variegation, plant 'Gouchaultii' in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. It tolerates partial shade, but the foliage may be greener, and the stems may not be as vibrant in lower light conditions.

The vibrant red stems of 'Gouchaultii' can be harvested for use in winter floral arrangements or holiday decorations. Cut the stems in late fall or early winter when their color is at its peak for indoor or outdoor displays.

Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or organic compost to promote healthy growth and vibrant foliage. A second light feeding after flowering can help maintain plant vigor throughout the summer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to overly vigorous growth at the expense of stem color.

• Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce weeds. Mulching also protects the shallow roots from temperature extremes.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Cornus alba 'Gouchaultii' is generally pest- and disease-resistant. However, it may occasionally experience issues with leaf spot or aphids. Good air circulation and proper watering practices help prevent fungal issues.
• Winter Care: This shrub is cold-hardy and does not require special winter care. The vibrant red stems provide excellent winter interest, especially when contrasted with snow or other evergreen plants.

Flowers: Small, creamy-white, flat-topped clusters bloom in late spring to early summer. Though not highly ornamental, they are lightly fragrant and attract pollinators like bees and hoverflies.

Pollination: Self-fertile—does not require a pollinator for fruit production.

Pollinated by insects, especially bees and small flies.

• Fruit: Produces small white berries in late summer, which are not showy to humans but are valuable food for birds.
  
  Berries do not have ornamental or edible use for people.

Cornus 'Gouchaultii' thrives in full sun to part shade, in moist, well-drained soils. Great companion plants include:

🌳 For Structural Contrast

• Physocarpus opulifolius 'Diabolo' – deep purple foliage offsets the variegation beautifully.
  
• Ilex verticillata – vibrant red winter berries complement red dogwood stems.
  

🌿 For Foliage Harmony

• Spiraea japonica 'Goldflame' – bright golden tones echo the yellow in Cornus foliage.
  
• Hakonechloa macra ‘Aureola’ – golden Japanese forest grass adds movement and elegance beneath shrubs.
  

🌸 For Bloom and Texture

• Astilbe – feathery plumes under partial shade add softness and color.
  
• Rudbeckia fulgida – summer bloomers with bold yellows that contrast the leaves.
  

❄️ For Winter Effect

• Evergreen conifers (e.g., dwarf Thuja or Chamaecyparis) – give a deep green backdrop for highlighting red stems in winter.