1 named cultivar

‘Variegata’Wedding Cake Tree

tree

Giant Dogwood

Cornus controversa

The Story

Plant Bio

A large, deciduous tree known for its tiers of horizontal branches and large, white flowers.

Notable for its layered branching habit, making it an excellent specimen tree.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides striking, tiered foliage and elegant floral clusters, enhancing garden aesthetics.

Offers shade and natural privacy screening.

Supports pollinators and beneficial insects with its flowers.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

420 inches

Width

420 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average to high

Lifespan

Decades

Native To

Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a location with partial shade to full sun for optimal growth.
Prepare well-draining soil rich in organic matter, amend if necessary.
Tuck young plants into the ground, ensuring roots are spread out.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil around roots.
Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Prune lightly in late winter to shape and remove dead branches.

Pro Tip

Plant in spring for best establishment and vibrant foliage display.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist 💧
Prune in late winter to maintain shape and remove dead wood ✂️
Mulch annually to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
Fertilize with a balanced shrub fertilizer in early spring
Monitor for pests and diseases regularly

Don't

Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot ❌
Don’t prune in late summer or fall, as it can affect next year’s growth
Refrain from planting in poorly drained areas
Don’t ignore signs of pests or diseases
Avoid heavy fertilization that can promote weak growth

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Elegant woodland borderShade-loving shrub in shady garden cornersStructure for mixed shrubbery beds

Companion Plants

HostaFerns Astilbe HydrangeaJapanese maple

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Giant Dogwood questions

What zones can Giant Dogwood grow in?

Giant Dogwood 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 Giant Dogwood deer resistant?

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

When does Giant Dogwood bloom?

Giant 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 Giant Dogwood need full sun?

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