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Description
Cornus Wilsoniana, also known as Wilson’s dogwood, is a deciduous shrub that is native to China. It is a member of the dogwood family, Cornaceae, and is named after the famous plant collector, Ernest Wilson. This shrub is widely known for its beautiful flowers that bloom in the spring and its colorful foliage in the fall. It is a popular ornamental plant that is commonly used in landscaping and gardening.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Cornales |
| Family | Cornaceae |
| Genus | Cornus |
Appearance
Cornus Wilsoniana can grow up to 8-10 feet tall and wide. Its leaves are oval-shaped and are about 3-5 inches long. They are dark green in color and have a glossy texture. In the spring, it produces clusters of small, creamy-white flowers that are about 2-3 inches in diameter. These flowers are surrounded by four white or pink bracts, which give the plant an attractive appearance. In the fall, the leaves turn a deep red, purple, or burgundy color, adding to its ornamental value.
Care Guide
Cornus Wilsoniana is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to help you keep your plant healthy:
- Water: Water your plant regularly, especially during the first year of growth. Make sure the soil is well-draining and does not become waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can damage the roots.
- Soil: Cornus Wilsoniana prefers well-draining, acidic soil. Make sure the soil is rich in organic matter, such as compost or peat moss.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers partial shade to full sun. Make sure it receives at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight each day.
- Hardiness Zones: Cornus Wilsoniana is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cornus Wilsoniana is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, leaf spot, and canker. To prevent these issues, make sure your plant is grown in well-draining soil and receives adequate sunlight and water. If you notice any signs of disease, such as yellowing leaves or spots, remove the affected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide.
Habitat
Cornus Wilsoniana is native to China and can be found growing in forests and woodlands. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun. This plant is commonly used in landscaping and gardening, and is often grown as an ornamental plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Cornus Wilsoniana be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Cornus Wilsoniana can be grown in containers. Just make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots and provides adequate drainage.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Cornus Wilsoniana plant?
A: Fertilize your Cornus Wilsoniana plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Does Cornus Wilsoniana attract wildlife?
A: Yes, Cornus Wilsoniana is known to attract birds, butterflies, and bees with its flowers and berries.
Q: How tall does Cornus Wilsoniana grow?
A: Cornus Wilsoniana can grow up to 8-10 feet tall and wide.
Related Plants
- Cornus florida (flowering dogwood)
- Cornus kousa (Japanese dogwood)
- Cornus mas (cornelian cherry)
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Cornus Wilsoniana
- Royal Horticultural Society: Cornus Wilsoniana
- North Carolina State University: Cornus Wilsoniana
