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Description
Cornus Alba also known as Siberian dogwood or Tatarian dogwood is a species of flowering plant in the family Cornaceae. It is a deciduous shrub that typically grows up to 3 meters tall and wide. It is a popular ornamental plant and is grown for its attractive bright red stems in winter and its leaves and flowers in summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cornales |
| Family | Cornaceae |
| Genus | Cornus |
Appearance
Cornus Alba has oval-shaped leaves that are dark green in color and turn red in autumn. It produces small, creamy-white flowers in summer, which are followed by small blue-black berries in autumn. However, the most noticeable feature of the plant is its bright red stems, which are particularly striking in winter when the plant has lost its leaves.
Care Guide
Water: Cornus Alba needs regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. It prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought once established.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilization as it can lead to weak growth and increased susceptibility to pests and diseases.
Soil: Cornus Alba prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils.
Sunlight: Cornus Alba prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may produce fewer flowers or have less vibrant stem color.
Hardiness Zones: Cornus Alba is hardy in USDA zones 2-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pests: Cornus Alba is relatively pest-resistant, but it can be attacked by aphids, scale insects, and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Diseases: Cornus Alba is susceptible to a few diseases, including powdery mildew, leaf spot, and canker. These diseases can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering. Fungicides can also be used to control these diseases.
Habitat
Cornus Alba is native to Siberia, China, and Korea. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, meadows, and riverbanks. It is commonly used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cornus Alba easy to grow?
A: Yes, Cornus Alba is relatively easy to grow, as it is adaptable to a wide range of growing conditions.
Q: Can Cornus Alba be pruned?
A: Yes, Cornus Alba can be pruned in late winter or early spring to maintain its shape and encourage new growth.
Q: Does Cornus Alba attract wildlife?
A: Yes, Cornus Alba’s berries attract birds and other wildlife.
Q: Can Cornus Alba be grown in pots?
A: Yes, Cornus Alba can be grown in pots, but it will require frequent watering and fertilization.
Related Plants
- Cornus Canadensis
- Cornus Florida
- Cornus Kousa
- Cornus Mas
- Cornus Nuttallii
References
- “Cornus alba (Tatarian dogwood) (red-barked dogwood).” RHS Gardening. Accessed August 19, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/2499/cornus-alba/details.
- “Cornus alba.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 19, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277054&isprofile=0&pt=2.
- “Cornus alba.” Plantwise. Accessed August 19, 2021. https://www.plantwise.org/knowledgebank/datasheet/35251/cornus-alba/#pests.
