Variegated Cornelian Cherry Dogwood Cornus mas 'Variegata' (v)

Water

The Variegated Cornelian Cherry Dogwood should be watered deeply once a week during its growing season, ensuring that moisture reaches the deeper roots. The soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings. During dry spells or hot weather, additional water may be necessary, potentially increasing to twice a week. As a general rule, provide about 1-2 gallons per watering for young plants, increasing to 2-4 gallons for mature trees. In the cooler dormant season, reduce watering frequency to every two to three weeks or as needed, depending on soil moisture levels.

Light

The Variegated Cornelian Cherry Dogwood benefits from full sun to partial shade. Ideally, the plant should receive at least four hours of direct sun daily for optimal flowering and variegation. A location that offers morning sun and afternoon shade would be particularly ideal, especially in areas with very hot summers, to prevent leaf scorch.

Temperature

The Variegated Cornelian Cherry Dogwood can tolerate a range of temperatures and is hardy in USDA zones 4 through 8. This means it can handle minimum temperatures as low as -20 to -30°F and it thrives in areas where the average temperature falls between 60°F and 70°F during the growing season. It is a resilient plant that will survive winters well and does not require special temperature considerations outside of its hardiness range.

Pruning

Prune the Variegated Cornelian Cherry Dogwood to maintain shape and encourage healthy growth, best done in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Remove any dead, damaged or crossing branches, and thin out the canopy if necessary to allow light and air to reach the inner branches. Routine pruning is usually performed every 1 to 3 years, depending on the tree's growth and desired shape. Prune immediately after flowering if you wish to avoid cutting off next year's flower buds.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Variegated Cornelian Cherry requires well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. A good mix would consist of loamy garden soil, compost, and sand or perlite to improve drainage. Amending with organic matter is beneficial for nourishment.

Repotting

Variegated Cornelian Cherry trees are typically planted in the ground and do not require frequent repotting. If grown in a container, repotting every 2-3 years or when rootbound is advisable.

Humidity & Misting

Variegated Cornelian Cherry is adaptable to a wide range of humidity levels and does not require specific humidity conditions for optimal growth.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright light, water regularly, protect from drafts.

• Outdoor

  Full sun to part shade, protect from strong winds, mulch root zone.

• Hardiness zone

  4-8 USDA

Life cycle

Cornelian cherry 'Variegata' (Cornus mas 'Variegata') begins its life cycle as a seed, typically germinating in spring when soil temperatures warm up. Initial growth is seen as the seed develops into a seedling with a root system and a shoot bearing simple leaves. As the plant matures, it enters a vegetative stage where it grows more complex variegated leaves and a branching woody structure over several years. Between late winter and early spring, Cornelian cherry 'Variegata' reaches the flowering stage, producing small yellow blossoms before the leaves fully emerge. After pollination, the flowers develop into bright red, cherry-like fruits in summer, which are enjoyed by wildlife and can be harvested for human consumption. With proper care and favorable conditions, the plant can live many years, becoming a multi-stemmed, deciduous shrub or small tree, and repeating this annual cycle throughout its lifespan.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Late winter-early spring

• Propogation: The Cornelian cherry dogwood, specifically the 'Variegata' cultivar, is most effectively propagated by softwood cuttings. This method is best carried out in late spring to early summer when the plant's new growth is mature enough to be pliable yet not fully hardened. One must select a healthy, non-flowering shoot and cut a 4 to 6-inch (approximately 10 to 15 cm) length, ensuring that a few pairs of leaves are present. The lower leaves should be removed and the cut end dipped into a rooting hormone to encourage root development. The cutting should then be placed in a moist, soilless potting mix, covering the lower nodes where the leaves were removed. The cutting needs a warm, humid environment to root, which can be provided by enclosing the pot in a plastic bag or placing it in a propagator. It may take several weeks for roots to develop, and once they are substantial, the new plant can be transplanted to a more permanent location.