Cornus Controversa Variegata 4 litre 50-60cm

Cornus controversa 'Variegata', the Wedding cake tree, is aptly named as it forms tabulate spreading tiers of branches, much like the layers of a traditional wedding cake. Foliage is a beautiful mid green with broad creamy white margins turning shades of reddish purple in the autumn. Considered slightly more robust than the similar Cornus alternifolia 'Argentea', 'Variegata' also has larger, slightly less delicate looking foliage.

Creamy white clusters of flowers appear in May-June followed by blue/black fruit that create additional seasonal interest. Cornus controversa 'Variegata' makes a wonderful focal point and lightens the garden. Given a sunny position expect a height and spread of 3 x 3 meters in 20 years from this flowering dogwood.

• Common name: Wedding Cake tree
• Awards: RHS Award of Garden Merit
• Height and spread in 20 years: 3 x 3 metres
• Seasons of interest: Spring, Summer, Autumn
• Foliage: Variegated, deciduous
• Position: Full sun to part shade