Northwest Blooms · Shrubs
Cornus alba 'Elegantissima'
Variegated Red Twig Dogwood
- Family
- Cornaceae
- Height
- 6 to 8 feet
- Width
- 6 to 8 feet
- Flower color
- Creamy white flowers
- Foliage color
- Green leaves with creamy white variegation
- Bloom time
- Late spring to early summer
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Moderate
- Maintenance
- Low; prune in late winter to remove old stems
- Growing zone
- USDA Zones 3 to 7
- Wildlife
- Birds, attracted to its white to bluish berries in late summer and fall, and pollinators visit the flowers in spring
About this plant
Cornus alba 'Elegantissima', also known as the variegated red twig dogwood, is a deciduous shrub valued for its vibrant stems and attractive foliage. The leaves are green with irregular creamy-white margins, creating a bright and elegant appearance throughout the growing season. In late spring to early summer, small clusters of creamy-white flowers bloom, adding a soft touch of color. These are followed by bluish-white berries in late summer, which attract birds and provide additional interest.
Native to eastern Asia, 'Elegantissima' is also well-known for its winter appeal when its bright red stems stand out dramatically against the bare landscape or snow. This multi-season shrub is a versatile choice for mixed borders, hedgerows, or as a focal point in the winter garden, offering year-round interest and texture.
Works well in
Sun Gardens · Winter Interest · Hedging & Privacy · Wildlife Gardens
Companion plants
Hebe · Flowering quince · Crocus · Matilija poppy · Mallow · Sweet William
Design tip
Cream-edged foliage keeps this dogwood looking bright through the growing season, but its red stems become the real feature after the leaves fall. Position it where winter sunlight can illuminate the bare branches, turning an otherwise quiet part of the garden into a colorful seasonal focal point.
