Cornus alba ‘Elegantissima’

Cornus alba ‘Elegantissima’, commonly known as the dappled dogwood, is an attractive and decorative shrub that is popular in many gardens and landscapes. This variety has several beneficial properties that make it a favored choice among gardeners and landscape architects.

**Appearance and Growth**
Cornus alba ‘Elegantissima’ is characterized by its beautiful, heart-shaped leaves that display white and green colors. The leaves have a green center, while the edges are adorned with a white margin, creating a visually pleasing contrast. The shrub can grow up to 1.5 to 2 meters high and has a sprawling, dense growth form, making it ideal for live fences or as a background plant. In spring, it produces small, white flowers that attract bees and other pollinators. After flowering, blueish-white berries develop, which are also attractive but not suitable for human consumption.

**Location and Soil Conditions**
This shrub prefers sunny or partially shaded locations. It thrives best in humus-rich, well-drained soil, but it is relatively adaptable and can grow in different soil types. Regular watering helps ensure proper root development, especially during the period after planting.

**Cultivation and Care**
Cornus alba ‘Elegantissima’ is easy to cultivate. It can be propagated in spring by cuttings or grafting. The shrub requires annual pruning to maintain density and shape. The best time for pruning is in the spring, once the risk of frost has passed and new shoots have appeared. When pruning, remove the older branches to make way for new growth. Due to its attractive appearance, this variety can be planted alone or combined with other plants.

**Diseases and Pests**
Generally, Cornus alba ‘Elegantissima’ is resistant to most pests and diseases, but it can occasionally face fungal diseases such as powdery mildew. Ensuring proper airflow and maintaining appropriate distances can reduce the risk of infection. Additionally, pests like spider mites or aphids may occasionally affect the plant, so it is wise to regularly check the condition of the leaves.

**Uses**
This shrub is excellent for use in gardens, particularly for live hedges or group plantings. It can be incorporated as a decorative element in flower beds, and its colorful leaves provide a beautiful contrast to other plants. The autumn foliage is also noteworthy, as the leaves turn reddish, making the shrub visually appealing even in winter when the stems shine in bright red.

Overall, Cornus alba ‘Elegantissima’ is a versatile and aesthetically pleasing shrub that offers numerous possibilities for gardeners and is an ideal choice for any garden where beauty and practicality are both important.