Cornus Florida – First Lady

Description

Cornus ‘First Lady Dogwood’ – Variegated Dogwood

A Striking, Multi-Season Ornamental with Variegated Foliage and Spring Blooms

Botanical Name: Cornus controversa ‘First Lady’
Common Name: First Lady Dogwood

Description:
Cornus ‘First Lady Dogwood’ is an elegant deciduous dogwood known for its striking variegated foliage, layered branching habit, and clusters of creamy-white flowers. This cultivar offers year-round interest: cream-edged green leaves in spring and summer, attractive white flowers in late spring, followed by vibrant yellow autumn colour. Its tiered, horizontal branching structure adds architectural beauty to both formal and naturalistic landscapes.

Specifications:

• Height at Maturity: 4 – 6 metres

• Width at Maturity: 3 – 5 metres

• Growth Habit: Upright, broadly spreading with tiered branching

• Foliage: Deciduous – green with creamy-white variegated margins

• Flowering: Late spring – flat clusters of small, creamy-white flowers

• Autumn Colour: Golden-yellow

• Bark: Smooth grey, attractive in winter

Position & Uses:

• Sun Requirements: Full sun to part shade

• Soil Type: Moist, well-drained soil (tolerant of clay and loamy soils)

• Uses: Feature tree, focal point in garden beds, specimen planting, woodland gardens

• Maintenance:

  • Minimal pruning required – best done in winter to maintain structure

  • Mulch annually to retain moisture and suppress weeds

  • Prefers protected position in hotter climates

Climate Tolerance:

• Hardy to cold climates

• Tolerates frost and light wind once established

Ideal For:

• Ornamental landscaping

• Layered planting designs

• Small to medium-sized gardens seeking year-round interest

Elevate your garden’s structure and seasonal beauty with Cornus ‘First Lady Dogwood’, a refined choice for standout foliage and floral charm – available now at Blerick Tree Farm.