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Cornus controversa
Cornus controversa
Cornus controversa
Cornus controversa

Cornus controversa

TAXONOMY

FamilyCornaceae
GenusCornus
Zone5

ABOUT

Cornus controversa, commonly known as the Giant Dogwood or Wedding Cake Tree, is a deciduous tree native to East Asia. It is known for its distinctive tiered branching pattern and clusters of small white flowers that bloom in late spring. The tree prefers temperate climates and can grow up to 15 meters tall. It undergoes a dormancy period during the winter months.

ALSO KNOWN AS

Bothrocaryum Controversum
Wedding Cake Tree
Cornus controversa var. alpina
Cornus controversa var. angustifolia
Cornus controversa var. shikokumontana
Cornus obovata
Cornus sanguinea
Swida controversa
Swida controversa var. alpina
Swida controversa var. shikokumontana

OVERVIEW

WaterWet
SoilLoamy
LightIndirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature15° C
Humidity60%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar

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DETAILS

Care Instructions
Cornus controversa thrives in moderate temperatures and prefers bright, indirect light. It requires evenly moist soil and benefits from a humid environment. Regular watering is essential, especially during dry periods. The tree is relatively easy to care for but does require some attention to its light and moisture needs.
Soil
The Giant Dogwood prefers well-draining loamy soil that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged. A mix of garden soil with organic matter such as compost is ideal. Ensure the soil pH is slightly acidic to neutral for optimal growth.
Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 during the growing season. Fertilize once a month to provide the necessary nutrients for healthy growth. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can harm the plant.
Repotting
Repotting is generally not required for outdoor trees, but if grown in a container, repot every 2-3 years. Choose a larger pot with good drainage and fresh soil mix. Repot in early spring before new growth begins.
Propagation
Propagate Cornus controversa through softwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the cuttings in a humid environment until roots develop.
Pruning
Prune the tree in late winter or early spring to maintain its shape and remove any dead or diseased branches. Light pruning can also be done after flowering to encourage new growth and improve air circulation.
Toxicity
Cornus controversa is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, it is always advisable to keep pets and children from ingesting any plant material.
Additional
The Giant Dogwood is a beautiful addition to any garden, providing year-round interest with its unique branching structure and seasonal flowers. It is relatively low-maintenance but benefits from regular care and attention to its growing conditions.
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