Cornus capitata Kilmacuragh Rose

The species comes from the Himalayan foothills, but Cornus capitata Kilmacurragh Rose was bred in Wicklow. It forms a spreading, bushy, evergreen shrub or small tree. Long, oval grey-green leaves 12cm/7” long turn purplish-red in autumn. The true flowers are small and green, appearing in clusters, but each is surrounded by four showy cream-coloured bracts which turn rose-pink as they age. These are followed in summer by dangling red fruits, strawberry-like in appearance. This flowering dogwood is a healthy plant which shrugs off pests and most diseases, but will not thrive in colder areas. Little or no pruning needed.

Site: Sheltered, but can take some exposure
Soil: Any reasonably well-drained, acid to neutral soil
Position: Full sun or partial shade
Season of Interest: Spring, summer, autumn
Hardiness: Hardy
Height: 40ft (12m) Spread: 40ft (12m) after 10-20 years