Wilson's dogwood (Cornus wilsoniana)

Wilson's dogwood

Wilson's dogwood is a semi-evergreen Chinese native plant with an appealing ghost-white exterior on its old trees’ trunks. Its Latin name Cornus wilsoniana comes from Latin cornus, meaning horn and referring to the wood's hardness, and wilsoniana, honoring Ernest Wilson, a British plant collector. This shrub is a perfect pick for a landscape because of its lovely seasonal flowers and fruits.

Scientific classification

Species

Wilson's dogwood (Cornus wilsoniana)

Dogwoods, hydrangeas, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Green, Gray, Silver

Leaf Color

Black, Purple, Lavender

Fruit Color

White, Yellow

Flower Color

Green, Gray, Silver, White

Stem Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Images of Wilson's dogwood

Distribution of Wilson's dogwood

Distribution Map

Wilson's dogwood is naturally found in Eastern Asia, native to temperate regions. It has spread and is cultivated in various non-native areas, thriving in different climatic conditions. This has resulted in wilson's dogwood establishing presence in a range of ecosystems beyond its initial natural range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Forests

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Quickly Identify Wilson's dogwood

Ghost-white mature trunk bark distinguishes wilson's dogwood from other plants, creating a striking visual contrast.

Leaves bear distinctive grayish-green upper side and dense white hairs underneath, aiding identification.

Small white flowers in clusters, 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) wide, contribute to wilson's dogwood's ornamental appeal.

Papery fruit, less than 0.25 inches (6.35 mm) in diameter, contain ribbed stones with seeds.

Stems transition from grayish-green and hairy to brown and smooth, aiding in identification.

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Care Guide for Wilson's dogwood

Every 2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Wilson's dogwood prefers a habitat resembling its native conditions with intermittent rainfall and well-draining soil. It requires watering every two weeks, favoring slightly moist, not saturated, soil. Mainly an outdoor plant, wilson's dogwood thrives in climates benefiting from natural rainfall during its growing season.

Fertilize: Wilson's dogwood thrives with balanced fertilizers like 10-10-10 or 5-5-5, applied once in spring and late summer. Water after fertilizing and add compost for soil health. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent root burn; moderation is key for optimal growth and flowering.

Pruning: Wilson's dogwood features attractive bark and colorful fall foliage. Prune in early spring to remove dead branches and improve air circulation. This encourages healthy growth and reduces disease risk. Employ these techniques to ensure a flourishing plant.

Propagation: Wilson's dogwood can be propagated using cuttings from healthy stems treated with rooting hormone. Place the cutting in well-draining soil in a humid environment with consistent moisture and indirect light to avoid rot. With care, new plants will reflect the characteristics of the parent wilson's dogwood.

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