Cornus controversa 'Variegata' 9L 80-100cm

Cornus controversa 'Variegata' 80-100cm – A Stunning, Architectural Tree for Year-Round Interest

The Cornus controversa 'Variegata,' also known as the Wedding Cake Tree, is a show-stopping deciduous tree prized for its distinctive tiered growth habit and striking variegated leaves. This ornamental tree is a perfect choice for gardeners looking to add structure, colour, and elegance to their landscape. Its graceful, horizontal branches create a layered effect, giving it a unique appearance that draws the eye in any garden setting.

At 80-100cm in height when purchased, Cornus controversa 'Variegata' is an excellent option for those looking to plant a tree that offers year-round interest. In spring and summer, the bright green leaves with creamy-white edges provide a beautiful contrast against darker foliage. In autumn, the leaves turn to shades of yellow before falling, and in winter, the elegant structure of the tree and its reddish-brown stems continue to provide visual appeal. This versatile tree is also ideal for smaller gardens or as a focal point in a mixed border.

Key Features of Cornus controversa 'Variegata'

Cornus controversa 'Variegata' is not only appreciated for its beauty but also for its adaptability and easy maintenance. It is a slow-growing, small to medium-sized tree that rewards gardeners with stunning foliage, seasonal flowers, and architectural shape. Below are the standout features of this magnificent tree:

• Striking Variegated Leaves: The foliage is bright green with creamy-white margins, creating an eye-catching contrast in the landscape.
• Architectural Growth Habit: The tree’s tiered, horizontal branching gives it a unique "wedding cake" appearance, adding a sense of structure to any garden.
• Seasonal Interest: In addition to its attractive foliage, this tree also produces clusters of small, white flowers in late spring, followed by dark purple berries in late summer that are loved by birds.
• Autumn Colour: The leaves take on beautiful yellow hues before dropping, offering a final burst of colour in the fall.
• Winter Appeal: Even after the leaves fall, the tree’s layered branches and reddish-brown stems continue to add visual interest through the winter months.
• Wildlife Friendly: The flowers and berries attract pollinators and birds, making it an eco-friendly choice for your garden.

Growing Conditions and Size

Cornus controversa 'Variegata' is a hardy tree that grows best in well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil. It prefers a sheltered position in full sun to partial shade, making it a versatile choice for a variety of garden settings. Given its relatively slow growth, this tree is perfect for smaller gardens where space may be limited, but you still want the impact of an architectural specimen.

• Position: Full sun or partial shade.
• Soil Type: Prefers well-drained, acidic to neutral soil.
• Height: 5-6 metres (16-20 feet) at maturity.
• Spread: 4-5 metres (13-16 feet) at maturity.

With a moderate growth rate, Cornus controversa 'Variegata' will eventually reach its full size over several years, providing lasting beauty and structure to your garden.

Maintenance Tips for Cornus controversa 'Variegata'

This variety of Cornus is relatively easy to care for and requires minimal pruning or upkeep once established. However, like all trees, a little attention will help it thrive and maintain its striking form and foliage. Below are some maintenance tips to keep your Cornus controversa 'Variegata' looking its best:

• Pruning: Light pruning can be done in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches. It is important to avoid heavy pruning as this can disrupt the tree's natural, tiered growth habit.
• Watering: Water regularly during the first year of planting to help establish a strong root system. Once established, the tree is moderately drought-tolerant but will benefit from deep watering during extended dry periods.
• Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as well-rotted compost or bark, around the base of the tree in early spring. This helps retain moisture and improves soil quality while keeping roots cool in summer.
• Feeding: Cornus controversa 'Variegata' generally requires little feeding, but applying a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in spring can help support healthy growth.
• Sheltered Location: While hardy, it's best to plant this tree in a spot sheltered from strong winds, which could damage its delicate branches.

By following these simple maintenance guidelines, you’ll ensure that your Cornus controversa 'Variegata' continues to flourish and remains an eye-catching feature in your garden for many years to come.

Perfect for Creating a Dramatic Focal Point

Cornus controversa 'Variegata' is a must-have tree for gardeners looking to make a dramatic impact in their outdoor space. Its striking variegated leaves, unique architectural form, and seasonal interest make it an ideal focal point for any garden design. Whether planted in a mixed border, as a standalone specimen, or in a woodland setting, this tree will never fail to draw attention and admiration.

Add Cornus controversa 'Variegata' to your garden today and enjoy the year-round beauty and architectural elegance it offers. This tree is perfect for creating a sophisticated, natural look and providing habitat for birds and pollinators

We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

Standard Delivery is FREE on orders over €250*

All standard deliveries will be completed within 5-7 working days via Fastway Couriers, any delay to this delivery time, the customer will be notified by One of our staff.

The in-Store delivery charge will vary compared with online, in-store delivery charge is done on a case by case basis. 

* Only mainland Ireland addresses qualify for free delivery.
 

Live Plants Delivery

Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

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