treeN. America Native

Celestial Shadow Dogwood

Name: Celestial Shadow Dogwood
Brand: Cornus
Availability: InStock

Cornus 'Celestial Shadow'

$93.95

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

240 inches

Width

180 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Deciduous tree, 40-60 years

Native To

Hybrid of North American and Asian species

Toxicity

Fruit is not palatable but not highly toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

The Rutgers hybrid dogwoods (Cornus x rutgersensis) are crosses between C. florida and C. kousa, combining the large flower bracts of the former with the disease resistance and later bloom time of the latter. 'Celestial Shadow' is a spectacular selection featuring bold, variegated leaves with green centers and broad, bright yellow-gold margins. In fall, the margins turn shades of pink and red, and it produces large, overlapping white flower bracts in spring.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

This is a premier specimen tree, offering multiple seasons of interest. It provides large white flowers in spring, stunning variegated foliage all summer, and incredible pink and red fall color. It brightens up any corner of the garden.

As a small- to medium-sized tree, it is well-suited for residential landscapes. Its disease resistance makes it a more reliable and lower-maintenance choice than the susceptible native Flowering Dogwood.

The flowers attract pollinators, and the small red fruits that follow are a valuable food source for dozens of species of songbirds in the late summer and fall. It provides nesting sites and cover.

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Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a site with morning sun and afternoon shade.
Amend soil with compost to create a rich, acidic, well-drained environment.
Dig a hole two to three times wider than the root ball.
Set the tree so its root flare is at or slightly above soil level.
Backfill with amended soil and water thoroughly.
Mulch with 3 inches of pine bark or compost, avoiding the trunk.

Pro Tip

Provide afternoon shade in hot climates to prevent leaf scorch on the variegated foliage and maintain the best color.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply and regularly, especially during dry spells.
Maintain a consistent layer of mulch over the root zone.
Prune out any solid green branches that may revert.
Protect the trunk from lawnmowers and trimmers.

Don't

Do not plant in heavy, poorly drained, or alkaline soils.
Avoid drought stress, which can make it susceptible to borers.
Do not perform heavy pruning, as it can ruin the natural form.
Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can inhibit flowering.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Mulch
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Stunning multi-season specimen treeBright accent for woodland edgesFocal point in a mixed border

Companion Plants

Rhododendron 'P.J.M.' Azalea 'Karen' Hosta 'Guacamole' Fothergilla gardenii Tiarella cordifolia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Celestial Shadow Dogwood questions

What zones can Celestial Shadow Dogwood grow in?

Celestial Shadow Dogwood is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Celestial Shadow Dogwood deer resistant?

Yes — Celestial Shadow Dogwood is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Celestial Shadow Dogwood bloom?

Celestial Shadow Dogwood 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 Celestial Shadow Dogwood need full sun?

Celestial Shadow Dogwood does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.