Giant dogwood - Cornus controversa (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Giant dogwood

Also known as: Wedding cake tree

Because of its elegantly multilayered branches and creamy white blossoms, the Wedding Cake Tree resembles a cake. It is native to Southeast Asia and has won the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit. Bees and butterflies feed on the nectar from the beautiful flowers of this plant.

Scientific classification

Species

Giant dogwood (Cornus controversa)

Dogwoods, hydrangeas, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

11 m to 14 m

Plant Height

White, Cream

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Giant dogwood

Distribution of Giant dogwood

Distribution Map

Giant dogwood, native to Eastern Asia, thrives in temperate climates across the region. It is notably present in areas spanning from the Himalayas to temperate East Asia. In addition to its native range, giant dogwood has been successfully introduced and cultivated in various parts of the world, adapting to similar climatic conditions found in its region of origin.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Woodland, hedges, thickets, forests

Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Giant dogwood, including the following common varieties :

Giant dogwood 'Variegata'

Quickly Identify Giant dogwood

Wide-spreading tiered branches

Elliptic leaves with dark green upper and silvery-green underside

Creamy-white flowers in dense clusters

Small bluish-black drupes under 1 inch (2.54 cm)

Horizontal branching creating a tiered effect

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Care Guide for Giant dogwood

Every 2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Giant dogwood prefers woodland-like conditions with consistent moisture but no waterlogging. It shows moderate drought tolerance, requiring watering every two weeks to keep soil moist. Grown outdoors, giant dogwood benefits from mulching to retain moisture, especially during its active growing season.

Fertilize: Fertilize giant dogwood in early spring and mid-summer with a balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer, applying 1/4 cup for small trees and up to 2 cups for larger ones. Avoid fall fertilization, and always water thoroughly after application to prevent root burn.

Pruning: Giant dogwood features horizontal branches and large white flower clusters. Pruning in early spring fosters healthy growth, shapes the plant, and improves air circulation. Removing damaged or crowded branches before new growth enhances blooming and overall health, increasing the plant’s aesthetic appeal.

Propagation: Giant dogwood is valued for its distinctive horizontal branching and white flower clusters. Grafting is a preferred propagation method, ensuring genetic consistency. Using vigorous scion wood enhances success, while proper preparation and post-grafting care, such as humidity and temperature management, support healthy growth.

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