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Description
Cornus Controversa Variegata, commonly known as the Wedding Cake Tree, is an ornamental deciduous tree that belongs to the Cornaceae family. It is native to Japan and China and grows well in temperate regions. The tree is known for its tiered branches that resemble a wedding cake and its striking variegated leaves that change color throughout the seasons. It produces small white flowers in late spring, followed by blue-black berries in the fall. The tree can grow up to 30 feet tall and 20 feet wide, making it a popular choice for landscaping and as a focal point in gardens.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cornales |
| Family | Cornaceae |
| Genus | Cornus |
| Species | Controversa |
Appearance
The Cornus Controversa Variegata is a beautiful tree that can grow up to 30 feet tall and 20 feet wide. It has tiered branches that form a layered, pyramidal shape, resembling a wedding cake. The leaves are variegated and change color throughout the seasons, with shades of green, white, and pink. The leaves are ovate and have a pointed tip, and they can grow up to 5 inches long. In late spring, the tree produces small white flowers that are followed by blue-black berries in the fall. The bark of the tree is smooth and grayish-brown, with a distinctive pattern of raised dots. The Cornus Controversa Variegata is a stunning addition to any garden or landscape.
Care Guide
The Cornus Controversa Variegata is a relatively low-maintenance tree that can thrive in most soil types. Here are some care tips to help your tree grow healthy:
- Water: The tree prefers well-drained soil and should be watered regularly, especially during hot and dry periods.
- Fertilization: The tree does not require frequent fertilization, but you can apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to promote healthy growth.
- Soil: The tree can grow in most soil types, but prefers slightly acidic and nutrient-rich soil.
- Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun to partial shade, and should be planted in a spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: The tree can grow in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Cornus Controversa Variegata is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues to watch out for:
- Aphids: These small insects can cause leaves to curl and turn yellow. Use insecticidal soap to get rid of them.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and use a fungicide spray to prevent it from spreading.
- Leaf Spot: This bacterial disease can cause brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and use a copper fungicide spray to prevent it from spreading.
Habitat
The Cornus Controversa Variegata is native to Japan and China, and can grow in temperate regions. It prefers well-drained soil and can grow in most soil types. The tree can be found in parks, gardens, and landscapes, and is a popular choice for its ornamental value.
Question and Answer
Q: How tall can a Cornus Controversa Variegata grow?
A: The Cornus Controversa Variegata can grow up to 30 feet tall and 20 feet wide.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that can affect a Cornus Controversa Variegata?
A: The common pests and diseases that can affect a Cornus Controversa Variegata include aphids, powdery mildew, and leaf spot.
Q: What is the best soil type for a Cornus Controversa Variegata?
A: The Cornus Controversa Variegata can grow in most soil types, but prefers slightly acidic and nutrient-rich soil.
Q: When does a Cornus Controversa Variegata produce flowers?
A: The Cornus Controversa Variegata produces small white flowers in late spring.
Related Plants
- Cornus alba
- Cornus florida
- Cornus kousa
- Cornus mas
References
- “Cornus controversa ‘Variegata’ Wedding Cake Tree.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/8020/Cornus-controversa-Variegata/Details.
- “Cornus controversa ‘Variegata’.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=244500.
- “Cornus controversa ‘Variegata’.” Chicago Botanic Garden, www.chicagobotanic.org/plantcollections/plantfinder/cornus_controversa_variegata–wedding_cake_tree.
