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cornus dogwood tree

The cornus dogwood tree is a beautiful, versatile addition to New Zealand gardens, celebrated for its graceful shape, delightful blooms, and exceptional autumn colour. From the iconic creamy white flowers in spring to lush foliage and showy berries in autumn, dogwoods create interest across all seasons. Whether you're establishing a cottage garden, seeking a small feature tree, or enhancing your landscape with multi-seasonal value, cornus dogwood trees offer the charm and low-maintenance benefits every gardener dreams of.

A Cornus controversa (Giant Dogwood) specimen tree.

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.

From $383.29

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 'Eddies White Wonder' white flowers held on trailing stems.

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 cultivar, a cross between Cornus florida and Cornus nuttallii, features large, showy white flowers that appear in spring, followed by red berries in autumn.

From $340.69

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Trees
Height: 6.00 m
Spread: 3.00 m
Flowering time: Spring
Tolerances: Hardy
Garden uses: Parks, Specimen
Garden styles: Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern
A Cornus 'Cloud 9' specimen tree with masses of white flowers.
Cornus 'Cloud 9'

Cornus 'Cloud 9' produces masses of showy, single, white flowers through spring, which are followed by clusters of red fruit in autumn. The foliage...

From$270.40
Cornus 'National' specimen tree with masses of cream-coloured flowers.
Cornus kousa National

Cornus kousa 'National' is a deciduous tree that features large and showy, cream white flowers in spring, which are followed by red berries in...

From$270.40
Cornus stolonifera 'Flaviramea' plants with yellow stems.
Cornus stolonifera 'Flaviramea'

Cornus stolonifera Flaviramea, commonly known as the Yellow Stem Dogwood, is a shrub that features bright yellow stems which become more pronounced...

From$270.40
Cornus alba 'Sibirica' new spring foliage with white flowers.
Cornus alba 'Sibirica'

Cornus alba ‘Sibirica’, commonly known as Siberian Dogwood, is a striking deciduous shrub ideal for New Zealand gardens. It is prized for its vivid...

From$34.43
Cornus 'Milky Way' specimen tree covered in masses of white flowers.
Cornus kousa 'Milky Way'

Cornus kousa 'Milky Way' features large and showy, white flowers that adorn the tree in spring and are followed by red berries in autumn. The glossy...

From$340.69
Cornus 'Southern Cross' white flowers with lush, green foliage.
Cornus kousa 'Southern Cross'

Cornus kousa 'Southern Cross' features large and showy, white flowers which adorn the tree in spring and are followed by red berries in autumn. It...

From$340.69
Cornus 'Stokes Pink' elegant pink flowers.
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...

From$270.40
Cornus 'Cherokee Chief' specimen tree with masses of pink flowers in late winter.
Cornus Cherokee Chief

Cornus 'Cherokee Chief' is a small, deciduous tree grown for its impressive flowering and attractive form. Masses of rose-red flowers are borne in...

From$270.40
A Cornus kousa 'Satomi' specimen tree with masses of elegant pink flowers.
Cornus kousa 'Satomi'

Cornus kousa 'Satomi' is a small and popular, deciduous tree that features masses of large and showy, pink flowers in spring, which are followed by...

From$270.40
A small Cornus kousa 'China Girl' specimen tree with masses of white flowers against green foliage.
Cornus kousa 'China Girl'

Cornus kousa 'China Girl' is a small and popular, deciduous tree with large and showy, white flowers that adorn the tree in spring and are followed...

From$340.69
Cornus controversa variegata (Wedding Cake Tree) specimen in a large garden.
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...

From$340.69
tree-and-shrub-fertiliser-
Tree Fertiliser

Using tree fertiliser results in plants having better quality foliage, more profuse flowering, stronger stems, and a much healthier and brighter...

From$16.95
pb-60-planter-bags-
PB60 Planter Bags (Bag For Xmas Tree)

PB60 Planter Bags are a strong and practical option for growing large trees, shrubs, fruit plants, natives, and advanced nursery stock. Their...

From$169.50
pb-28-planter-bags-
PB28 Planter Bags (Christmas Tree Bag)

PB28 Planter Bags are a durable and economical option for growing large trees, shrubs, fruit plants, natives, and other mature nursery stock. Their...

From$130.50
emguard-biodegradable-plant-shelter-
Tree Guards

Tree Guards provide a simple and effective way to protect young trees from animals, wind, accidental damage, and herbicide spray. They create a...

From$5.00
ulmus-lobel-
Ulmus 'Lobel' (Dutch Elm Tree)

Ulmus 'Lobel' is a refined deciduous elm valued for its narrow upright form, dense green foliage, and excellent suitability as an avenue or specimen...

From$557.95
Melia azedarach tree.
Melia azedarach (Bead Tree)

Melia azedarach (Bead Tree, White Cedar) is a graceful deciduous tree valued for its attractive fern like foliage, fragrant clusters of lilac...

From$387.55
cloth-tree-tie-
Cloth Tree Tie

Cloth Tree Ties are a soft, flexible solution for securely supporting young trees and plants while they establish. Made from durable cloth material...

From$9.28
Dacrydium cupressinum (Rimu) tree juvenile foliage.
Dacrydium cupressinum (Rimu Tree)

Dacrydium cupressinum, commonly known as Rimu or Red Pine, is an iconic and slow-growing tree. The juvenile form features drooping branches densely...

From$99.29
Liriodendron tulipifera 'Fastigiata' trees with yellow foliage in autumn.
Liriodendron tulipifera 'Fastigiata' (Tulip Tree)

Liriodendron tulipifera fastigiata, also known as the Upright Tulip Tree, is a stunning deciduous tree admired for its narrow, columnar form. It...

From$515.35
fruiting-plant-fertiliser-
Fruit Tree Fertiliser

Fruit Tree Fertiliser is specially formulated to support healthy growth, strong root development, and productive fruiting in a wide range of fruit...

From$16.95
A large Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa tree).
Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa Tree)

Beilschmiedia tawa, commonly known as the Tawa Tree, is a tall and graceful evergreen native to New Zealand. It is admired for its straight trunk...

From$313.00
jute-tree-tie-1
Jute Tree Tie

Jute Tree Tie is a natural and flexible option for securing young trees to stakes while they establish. The soft material helps reduce rubbing and...

From$64.67
palm-tree-fertiliser-1
Palm Tree Fertiliser

Choosing the correct Palm tree fertiliser is essential for producing better quality foliage, stronger fronds, and a much healthier and brighter...

From$16.95
Cornus 'Elizabeth Lustgarten' specimen tree with masses of white flowers.
Cornus 'Elizabeth Lustgarten'

Cornus 'Elizabeth Lustgarten' features large and showy, white flowers during spring and summer, which are followed by red berries in autumn. It grows...

OUT OF STOCK
Cornus kousa (Dogwood) specimen tree with lush green foliage and masses of white flowers.
Cornus kousa

Cornus kousa is a variety of Dogwood grown for its impressive flowering and attractive form. Large and showy, white flowers adorn the tree in spring...

OUT OF STOCK
Cornus 'Midwinter Fire' plant with orange-red stems.
Cornus 'Midwinter Fire'

Cornus 'Mountain Fire' is a variety of the commonly known, Dogwood, and is a shrub that features brightly coloured stems which are most pronounced in...

OUT OF STOCK
Cornus alba 'Elegantissima' variegated foliage.
Cornus alba 'Elegantissima'

Cornus alba 'Elegantissima', commonly known as the Red-Twig Dogwood, is a deciduous shrub grown for its variegated foliage and colourful stems. The...

OUT OF STOCK
A Cornus kousa 'Pendula' tree with white flowers and cascading green foliage.
Cornus kousa 'Pendula'

Cornus kousa 'Pendula' is a deciduous shrub that produces large and showy, white flowers through spring and summer. It grows with an upright and...

OUT OF STOCK
Cornus 'Spring Song' rose-pink flowers.
Cornus florida 'Spring Song'

Cornus florida 'Spring Song' is a deciduous shrub grown for its colourful flowering in spring. At this time, masses of showy, rose-pink flowers are...

OUT OF STOCK
Cornus controversa

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You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Cornus, or related Categories - Deciduous Shrubs, and Deciduous Trees.

Search cornus dogwood tree

Why Choose a Cornus Dogwood Tree?

A cornus dogwood tree delivers year-round appeal, making it a highly sought-after ornamental tree across New Zealand. In spring, clusters of star-shaped flowers provide a spectacular display. Summer reveals lush, green leaves under dappled sunlight. As autumn arrives, foliage transforms into fiery shades of red and orange, while attractive berries feed native birds. Dogwoods are well-suited to a range of soil types and can thrive in part-shade, making them perfect for urban yards or rural landscapes alike.

Popular Varieties of Cornus Dogwood Trees

Selecting the right cornus dogwood tree involves considering both flowering style and mature size. If you adore layered horizontal branching, Cornus controversa, also known as the Wedding Cake Tree, creates a striking tiered effect. For show-stopping snowy white bracts, Cornus 'Eddie's White Wonder' and Cornus 'Cloud 9' are outstanding choices. Gardeners who love subtle pink tones and delicate blooms might consider Cornus 'Elizabeth Lustgarten'. For pure, classic beauty, Cornus kousa National remains a timeless favourite.

How and Where to Plant Cornus Dogwood Trees in New Zealand

Cornus dogwood trees thrive best in locations with well-drained, humus-rich soil. Choose a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade for optimal growth and flower display. Before planting, enrich the soil with organic matter and ensure adequate drainage. When positioning your dogwood, be mindful of their mature width—these trees prefer room to spread naturally.

Mulch with bark or leaf litter to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Water young trees regularly during dry spells, but once established, cornus dogwood trees are surprisingly drought-tolerant. Pruning needs are minimal: simply remove any dead or crowded branches after the bloom to maintain your tree’s natural grace.

Caring for Your Cornus Dogwood Tree

Most cornus dogwood trees are low-maintenance, but for optimal health and flowering, give them a little extra attention during their first two years. Keep the root zone cool and moist, and feed in early spring with a slow-release fertiliser designed for flowering trees. Dogwoods rarely have serious pest issues, provided they’re planted in well-draining soil.

Regular monitoring and proper placement will ensure your cornus dogwood tree flourishes, gracing your garden with decades of beauty.

Discover the Perfect Cornus Dogwood Tree for Your Garden

Whether you covet the upright elegance of Cornus 'Cloud 9', the bold form of Cornus controversa, or the crisp white blooms of Cornus 'Eddie's White Wonder', introducing a cornus dogwood tree to your landscape is an investment in four seasons of garden interest. Browse our range, including Cornus kousa National and Cornus 'Elizabeth Lustgarten', and start creating a stunning, bird-friendly sanctuary in your outdoor space.

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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.

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