Cornus sanguinea

Native Dogwood (Conbhaiscne)

This once rare native shrub or small tree is now widely planted due to its ability to grow almost anywhere. Creamy-white flowers in late spring, followed later by small purple-black fruit. Its leaves turn reddish-purple in autumn and hold on to colourful reddish stems throughout the winter.For best stem colour and to keep it in check, prune in late winter, either removing about a third of the oldest stems or cutting back all stems every 3 or 4 years.

Site:Tolerates inland exposure
Soil:Preferably lime, tolerates damp
Position:Full sun, partial shade
Season of Interest:Spring flowers, Autumn berries and foliage, Winter stems
Hardiness:Fully hardy
Height:10ft (3m) Spread: 8ft (2.5m)if unpruned