Cornus sanguinea

Native Dogwood (Conbhaiscne)

This once rare native shrub or small tree is now widely planted due to its ability to grow almost anywhere. Creamy-white flowers in late spring, followed later by small purple-black fruit. Its leaves turn reddish-purple in autumn and hold on to colourful reddish stems throughout the winter. For best stem colour and to keep it in check, prune in late winter, either removing about a third of the oldest stems or cutting back all stems every 3 or 4 years.

Site: Tolerates inland exposure
Soil: Preferably lime, tolerates damp
Position: Full sun, partial shade
Season of Interest: Spring flowers, Autumn berries and foliage, Winter stems
Hardiness: Fully hardy
Height: 10ft (3m) Spread: 8ft (2.5m) if unpruned

If you are participating in the ACRES Scheme and want to order native plants, please go to our ACRES PAGE for information on how to order your plants.

Please do not order online for the Acres Scheme.