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cornus controversa for sale

Looking for something truly unique to elevate your New Zealand garden? Discover Cornus controversa for sale, an architectural gem known as the Giant Dogwood. Renowned for its graceful, tiered branches and lush, broad green leaves, Cornus controversa makes a strong statement as a specimen tree. In late spring, it bursts into a spectacular show of creamy-white floral clusters that float above the horizontal limbs, followed by ornamental blue-black berries in autumn. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, Giant Dogwood offers year-round drama and elegance with very little effort.

Cornus controversa

Cornus controversa, commonly known as the Giant Dogwood, is a medium-sized, deciduous tree that features lush foliage that emerges mid-green in spring, ages to become dark green, then develops colourful red and purple tones in autumn before falling. The tree is adorned with clusters of cream-white flowers in summer, which result in small, dark blue berries. It typically grows to 10 m tall and 6 m wide. Cornus controversa makes for a lovely specimen tree and is an excellent choice for adding to a mixed planting, or using as a backdrop for smaller plants.

A Cornus controversa (Giant Dogwood) specimen tree.
  • Suited to regions:
    All regions
  • Plant type:
    Trees
  • Height:
    10.00 m
  • Spread:
    6.00 m
  • Flowering time:
    Summer
  • Garden uses:
    Parks, Specimen
  • Garden styles:
    Alpine, Backyard, Frontyard, Japanese
Cornus controversa variegata (Wedding Cake Tree) specimen in a large garden.
Most Popular Cornus controversa variegata

Cornus controversa variegata, commonly referred to as the Wedding Cake Tree, features tiered branches that bear leaves that are variegated cream and...

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Cornus 'Cherokee Chief' specimen tree with masses of pink flowers in late winter.
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Cornus 'Eddies White Wonder' white flowers held on trailing stems.
Most Popular Cornus 'Eddie's White Wonder'

Cornus 'Eddie's White Wonder' is a deciduous dogwood tree renowned for its impressive spring blossoms and vibrant autumn foliage. This hybrid...

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Cornus stolonifera 'Flaviramea' plants with yellow stems.
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Cornus 'Stokes Pink' elegant pink flowers.
Most Popular Cornus 'Stokes Pink'

Cornus 'Stokes Pink' is a deciduous shrub grown for its colourful flowering in spring. At this time, masses of showy, two-tone pink flowers are borne...

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Dacrydium cupressinum (Rimu) tree juvenile foliage.
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A Meryta sinclairii (Puka) specimen tree.
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An Acer 'Katsura' specimen tree with orange and green foliage.
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Cornus controversa

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Why Choose Cornus controversa (Giant Dogwood)?

Cornus controversa stands apart for its striking layered structure. Mature trees create a captivating tiered effect, making them ideal as a feature in larger gardens or as a majestic backdrop in mixed borders. These trees reach heights of 10–15 metres, producing a broad, umbrella-like canopy that casts gentle shade—perfect for underplanting with woodland perennials or spring bulbs. The foliage develops pretty red and purple tones for added seasonal interest, and the impressive silhouette endures—even when the leaves have fallen.

Growing Conditions for Cornus controversa

To get the best results from your Cornus controversa for sale, plant it in fertile, moist, well-drained soil and position it in full sun to part shade. It's hardy and generally easy to grow throughout most of New Zealand, tolerating both cool southern gardens and milder northern climates. Mulch annually and water regularly during dry periods while young. This tree is relatively pest and disease resistant, making it a low-maintenance yet rewarding addition.

Great Companions and Related Varieties

Cornus controversa pairs beautifully with other standout trees and shrubs. For a dazzling foliage twist, consider the Cornus controversa variegata, renowned for its creamy-white edged leaves and similar elegant branching. If you love the dogwood family, explore the vibrant flowers of Cornus Cherokee Chief, the pure white blooms of Cornus 'Cherokee Princess', or the hybrid charm of Cornus 'Eddie's White Wonder'. For contrast, underplant with colourful dogwood stem forms such as Cornus stolonifera 'Flaviramea'.

You might also consider weaving in other striking feature trees for seasonal drama and varied texture, like Acer japonicum 'Green Cascade' and Acer palmatum 'Beni Otake'. If you're after berries or winter interest, add Malus Golden Hornet or the evergreen structure of Podocarpus macrophyllus (Japanese Yew). For a touch of golden colour, Acacia baileyana is another outstanding companion.

Buy Cornus controversa for Your Garden

Our nursery offers healthy, robust Cornus controversa for sale, grown locally to perform in New Zealand conditions. Whether you're designing a woodland garden, looking for a feature tree, or simply want a conversation starter, Giant Dogwood is an excellent choice. Browse our range or get in touch for expert advice—we're here to help you find, plant, and care for the most beautiful trees for your landscape.


Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

–The Plant Company

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