Cornus alba 'Baton Rouge'

Description: This red stemmed dogwood is grown mostly for its striking scarlet stems in winter following good autumn leaf colour as the green leaves turn shades of orange/yellow. If left unpruned then it will produce heads of creamy-white flowers in late spring and early summer. However, if grown for winter stem colour and therefore stooled (cut back to near ground level each year) then no flowers will be seen.

Excellent for shrub borders or watersides and especially useful in a designated winter border.

Climate/Position: Sun or partial shade

Height/Spread: 1.8m

Soil Requirements: Grow in neutral to acidic, well drained or damp soil.

Pruning: When grown specifically for its scarlet stems then cut down hard in March to near ground level (stooling). If left as a shrub then little pruning is needed but can be trimmed to keep a nice shape

Special Requirements:

If stooled for winter colour then ensure plants are mulched with organic matter and fed each spring to maintain its growth.

Breeder Minier Nurseries 2007