Sgt. Pepper™ Dogwood — Cornus alba 'Verpaalen2'

Sgt. Pepper™ Dogwood (Cornus alba 'Verpaalen2') brings changing foliage color and bright winter stems to the landscape. Its gray-green leaves have irregular white margins, emerging with pink tints in spring and turning burgundy with hot-pink edges in fall. Bright red stems stand out after the leaves drop.

This fast-growing deciduous shrub forms a broad mound. Clusters of small white flowers appear in spring, followed by blue-tinted white berries that attract birds.

Growing details

• Plant type: Deciduous shrub
• Species origin: Northeastern Asia and Russia
• Listed height: 4–6 feet
• Listed spread: 6–8 feet
• Spacing: Approximately 7 feet apart
• USDA hardiness zones: 3–7
• Light: Full sun to part sun; best stem color in full sun
• Soil: Moist and well-drained
• Flowers: White clusters in spring
• Seasonal interest: Variegated foliage, fall color and red winter stems
• Cultivar: 'Verpaalen2', PP34,377

Care and garden use

This shrub has moderate maintenance needs. Pruning in late spring encourages new growth, which provides the strongest stem color. Mulch to help keep roots cool in summer, and allow room for its broad mature spread. Choose a site within its listed hardiness range.

Use as an accent, in group plantings, along borders, in woodland gardens or foundation beds, or near ponds and streams where soil drains well. Pair with maple, sweetflag or itea where growing conditions suit each plant.

Image credits: Photos by Proven Winners, Sgt. Pepper™ Dogwood.

Plants naturally vary in appearance and may differ from the images shown.