Cornus alba 'Elegantissima'
shrub

Elegantissima Dogwood

Cornus alba 'Elegantissima'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated
Real-Time Pricing
Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

96 inches

Width

96 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Decades

Native To

Siberia, northern China, Korea

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Cornus alba 'Elegantissima' is a deciduous shrub renowned for its striking variegated foliage, featuring creamy white edges contrasting with green centers, and clusters of white flowers in spring that give way to vibrant red stems in winter. This cultivar is especially valued for its variegated leaves and particularly its bright red winter stems, making it a standout ornamental shrub throughout multiple seasons.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesProvides striking variegated foliage and seasonal interest, enhancing garden aesthetics.
Practical UsesServes as a beautiful shrub that offers privacy and structure.
Ecological BenefitsSupports local bird populations with its berries and shelter.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck well-draining soil around roots for stability.
  2. Plant in a location with partial sun for optimal growth.
  3. Water regularly during first growing season to establish roots.
  4. Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  5. Prune lightly after flowering to shape and remove dead wood.
  6. Monitor for pests and diseases, treat as needed.

Pro Tip

Ensure soil stays moist but well-drained for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
  • Prune in late winter or early spring ✂️
  • Mulch annually to conserve moisture
  • Fertilize in early spring with balanced fertilizer

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
  • Don’t prune in late summer or fall
  • Avoid planting in overly shady spots
  • Don’t ignore pest infestations

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Mulch
Propagate
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Colorful border with variegated foliageDecorative shrub in mixed bedsSeasonal interest in shrub borders

Companion Plants

Azaleas Hostas Hydrangeas Ferns Japanese maples

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Elegantissima Dogwood questions

What zones can Elegantissima Dogwood grow in?

Elegantissima Dogwood is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Elegantissima Dogwood deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Elegantissima Dogwood, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Elegantissima Dogwood bloom?

Elegantissima 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 Elegantissima Dogwood need full sun?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Elegantissima Dogwood 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.

Download Sow on the App StoreGet Sow on Google Play