Description
Cornus alba ‘Sibirica Variegata’ is a stunning and hardy shrub that is native to Siberia and northern China. This cultivar of Cornus alba is prized for its striking variegated foliage, which features green leaves with creamy white margins that turn pinkish-red in autumn. In winter, the plant’s bright red bark adds a splash of colour to the winter landscape. ‘Sibirica Variegata’ is a medium-sized shrub, reaching up to 2m in height, and is known for its tolerance to a wide range of growing conditions, including full sun to partial shade, and most soil types, making it an excellent choice for UK gardens. This shrub is also low-maintenance and easy to grow, with minimal pruning required to maintain its shape and size. Overall, Cornus alba ‘Sibirica Variegata’ is a beautiful and versatile addition to any UK garden, providing year-round interest with its striking foliage and colourful bark.
Key Facts
- Common Name(s):Variegated Siberian Dogwood
- Hardiness:Fully hardy
- How big will I get? Cornus alba ‘Sibirica Variegata’ can grow to a height of 2m and a spread of 2m.
- Did You Know That:Cornus alba ‘Sibirica Variegata’ is also known to attract a variety of birds, including robins and sparrows, which feed on its berries during the winter months.
Plant Calendar
A rough guide to how this plant will change through the year.
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Care Guide
Soil Requirements
Cornus alba ‘Sibirica Variegata’ is a versatile plant and can cope with wet or drier soils, but prefers there to be decent drainage. This plant can grow in soil with a wide range of pH levels, it is not picky about the pH level of the soil.
Best Position
Cornus alba ‘Sibirica Variegata’ can handle either an exposed or a sheltered position and can cope with either full sun or partial shade.
Maintenance
Cornus alba ‘Sibirica Variegata’ should be pruned annually. To ensure bright stems every winter, coppice your dogwood shrubs by cutting back all shoots to 5-7.5cm (2-3in) from the ground between late winter and mid-spring, once the plants are established. Do this pruning annually to maintain the base framework of the plant, known as a stool. Tidy up the stool by sawing off any damaged or congested bits after cutting back the shoots. It is best to carry out this pruning in early to mid-April for good colorful stems next year.
Pest, Diseases and Wildlife
Cornus alba ‘Sibirica Variegata’ is generally pest free, and it tends not to have problems with diseases. It is also known to attract bees, butterflies and other pollinators. It is not considered to be toxic.
