GardenWizzPlant Care Card

Cornus

Cornus · Shrub

Hardiness
Position
Full sun, Partial shade
Height × Spread
1.2–8 m × 1.5–8 m
Soil
moisture-retentive soil; moist but well-drained soil; neutral to acidic soil for C. kousa
Flowering
May–June
Toxicity
Fruits of species in subgenus Swida are mildly toxic to people; fruits of subgenus Cornus are edible.

The Gardening Year

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
🪴 Plant out
🌸 In flower
✂️ Prune

Watch out for

Cornus anthracnose: Rake up and destroy fallen leaves to reduce inoculum and choose resistant European species where possible.

Powdery mildew: Ensure good air circulation by pruning and water at the base to keep foliage dry during humid weather.

Slugs and snails: Use physical barriers like copper tape or apply iron phosphate-based pellets around the base of the plant.

Aphids: Encourage natural predators like ladybirds or blast off infestations with a strong jet of water.

Vine weevil: Apply systemic insecticide granules to the compost or use biological controls like nematodes.

Full guide: gardenwizz.com/plants/cornus © GardenWizz — UK gardening encyclopedia