Cornus alba 'Ivory Halo' PP8722 (Ivory Halo® Dogwood)

The flowers and berries of 'Ivory Halo' attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies. In late summer, birds are drawn to the small white berries, making this shrub a valuable addition to wildlife-friendly gardens. The dense foliage also provides shelter for small animals and insects.

Spring:

• Emerges with variegated green and creamy-white foliage
  
• Blooms with small creamy-white flowers
  

Summer:

• Maintains bright variegated leaves
  
• Begins developing bluish-white berries
  

Fall:

Leaves may take on pink to burgundy tones before dropping

Berries may persist into early fall

• Winter:
  
• Showcases striking red stems for exceptional winter interest
  
• Best displayed when leaves have dropped, especially against snow or mulch
  
  

•  Foundation plantings – Adds structure and foliage contrast near buildings.
  
• Borders and hedges – Dense form works well in massed plantings.
  
• Winter interest – Red stems provide striking color when leaves drop.
  
• Rain gardens or moist sites – Tolerates wetter soils well.
  
• Mixed shrub borders – Great backdrop for perennials and other shrubs.
  
  

'Ivory Halo' features stunning, variegated leaves that are dark green with bright, creamy white margins. The foliage is dense and oval-shaped, adding both texture and color to the garden from spring through fall. The white-edged leaves remain fresh and vibrant throughout the growing season, offering a striking contrast to the rich red stems that become more prominent in winter.

• Flowering Season: Late spring to early summer (May to June).
• Flower Description: Ivory Halo® Dogwood produces small, flat-topped clusters of white flowers in late spring. Though not highly ornamental, the flowers attract pollinators and add subtle beauty to the shrub. These blooms are followed by small white berries in late summer that are loved by birds.

• Planting Time: Plant in early spring or fall when the soil is cool and moist. This allows the roots to establish before facing extreme heat or cold.
• Soil: Ivory Halo® Dogwood prefers moist, well-drained soil but can tolerate a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. It thrives in slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0) and can handle both wet and dry conditions once established.
• Spacing: Space plants 5-6 feet apart to allow for their mature width and to create a dense, rounded shrub.

Purning : Prune in late winter or early spring to remove any dead, damaged, or weak stems and to maintain its shape. To enhance the vibrant red stems, remove the older, thicker stems and encourage new growth. Pruning can also help control the size of the shrub if necessary.

• Watering Requirements: 'Ivory Halo' prefers consistently moist soil, especially during its first growing season. Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant but benefits from regular watering during extended dry periods.

• Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade. For the best foliage color and stem color, plant 'Ivory Halo' in full sun, where it will receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight. It can also tolerate partial shade but may produce fewer flowers and less vibrant stem coloration.

Foliage:

• Can be clipped lightly in early summer for small indoor arrangements or greenery bundles
  
• Avoid heavy pruning during active growing season
  

Stems for Winter Decor:

• Red stems are excellent for holiday or winter floral arrangements
  
• Harvest in late fall to early winter, once foliage has dropped for brightest color
  
• Use sharp pruners and cut only 1/3 of the stems to maintain plant health and shape
  

Fruits/Berries:

• Not commonly harvested for ornamental or culinary use
  
• Best left on the plant to attract birds or for natural winter decoration

Fertilizing : Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or apply organic compost to promote healthy growth and vibrant foliage. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive leafy growth at the expense of colorful stems.

• Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Mulching is especially important during the first growing season and in hot or dry climates.
• Winter Care: The red stems of 'Ivory Halo' become more vibrant in winter, providing a splash of color to otherwise bare landscapes. No special winter care is needed, but mulching around the base can help protect the roots in colder climates.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Ivory Halo® Dogwood is generally pest- and disease-resistant, making it a low-maintenance shrub for most gardens. Ensure good air circulation and proper watering to avoid potential issues like powdery mildew or root rot.

Pollination : 'Ivory Halo' is pollinated by bees and other beneficial insects that are attracted to its small, nectar-rich flowers. The shrub is self-pollinating and does not require any special pollination assistance to produce its attractive white berries in late summer.

 Perennials

• Hosta varieties – Broad, lush foliage pairs well in shaded or partly shaded sites.
  
• Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower) – Bold summer blooms stand out against the dogwood's subtle spring flowers.
  
• Sedum ‘Autumn Joy’ – Adds late-season interest and structural contrast.
  
• Astilbe – Airy flower plumes in partial shade areas complement dense dogwood foliage.
  

 Grasses and Groundcovers

• Calamagrostis ‘Karl Foerster’ – Tall, upright ornamental grass adds movement and vertical balance.
  
• Carex oshimensis ‘Evergold’ – Bright variegated grass echoing the cream margins of 'Ivory Halo’.
  
• Ajuga reptans ‘Black Scallop’ – Deep purple foliage creates a dramatic groundcover under the shrub.