Wedding Cake Tree
Cornus controversa 'Variegata'
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
360 inches
Width
360 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
50+ years
Native To
Asia
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Cornus controversa 'Variegata' is a deciduous tree known for its layered branching habit and striking variegated foliage. This cultivar features creamy white margins on the leaves, providing a beautiful contrast throughout the growing season.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck well-drained, fertile soil around the roots.
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Mist new cuttings daily to encourage rooting.
- Place in partial shade to full sun for optimal growth.
- Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape.
Pro Tip
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently during dry spells 🌱
- Prune after flowering to shape the shrub
- Apply a balanced fertilizer annually
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t prune in late fall or winter
- Avoid heavy clay soils without amendment
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Wedding Cake Tree questions
What zones can Wedding Cake Tree grow in?
Wedding Cake Tree is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Wedding Cake Tree deer resistant?
Yes — Wedding Cake Tree is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Wedding Cake Tree bloom?
Wedding Cake Tree typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Wedding Cake Tree need full sun?
Wedding Cake Tree does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Cornus to compare
Red Twig Dogwood
Cornus sericea 'Red Twig'
Arctic Fire Red Osier Dogwood
Cornus sericea 'Arctic Fire'
Kousa Dogwood
Cornus kousa
Midwinter Fire Dogwood
Cornus sanguinea 'Midwinter Fire'
Giant Dogwood, Wedding Cake Tree
Cornus controversa
Red Osier Dogwood
Cornus sericea 'Cardinal'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
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Hardy in your zone?
Grow Wedding Cake Tree with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
