Cornus stolonifera flaviramea - Yellow Barked Dogwood

A fast-growing suckering shrub with bright yellow-green stems in winter. The Yellow Dogwood makes a striking contrast grown with the Red-Barked Dogwood in waterside plantings where its reflection in the water doubles the impact. It makes an unusual informal hedge or screen, and can be included in mixed hedges.

Site and soil

The Yellow Dogwood will grow well in almost any soil, but it is a good plant for wet situations. Will cope well on coastal sites.

Height and spread

Below are the approximate stages of growth, assuming sited in suitable conditions for this species;

After 10 years: 3m x 4m
After 20 years: 3m x 4m

Leaf and bark

The ovate to lance-shaped dark green leaves turn red in autumn. The bark is smooth and shiny, and young stems are coloured a bright yellow-green.

Flower, seed and fruit

The white flowers are borne in flat clusters in late spring, and are followed by white, tinged blue, berries in autumn. The berries are more abundant than on the Red-Barked Dogwood.

Uses

Screening, landscaping, hedging, gardens. Useful as a waterside barrier where there is public access. The stems are used by florists in displays. They are also used to add colour in basket making.

Wildlife

Insects are attracted to the flowers. Cover for birds and small mammals.