Cornus alternifolia Golden Shadows® (Pagoda Dogwood)

Cornus alternifolia Golden Shadows (‘Wstackman’ PBR) is a stunning deciduous shrub known for its golden-yellow variegated leaves with green margins. The foliage is not the only star; small white flowers and blue-black fruit add to its multi-season interest.

Cornus alternifolia Golden Shadows®: An In-depth Look

Native: This cultivar has its roots in the species Cornus alternifolia, native to the eastern United States and parts of Canada.

Plant Type and Habit: It is a deciduous shrub or small tree with a layered, tiered habit that offers a unique, almost pagoda-like appearance.

Size: The Golden Shadows cultivar usually grows to be 10 to 12 feet (300-360 cm) tall and wide, which is more compact than the native species.

Flowers: The plant features delicate clusters of small, star-shaped white flowers. Expect flowers to appear from late spring to early summer, creating a delightful contrast with the golden-yellow foliage.

Fruits: Dark blue fruits follow in summer. These fruits are attractive to birds and add an additional layer of seasonal interest to the plant.

Foliage: Its defining feature is the variegated foliage, golden-yellow in color with green margins, which provides a luminous quality to shaded garden spaces.

Hardiness: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3 through 8, displaying considerable resilience to varying weather conditions.

Uses: This dogwood is perfect for a woodland garden or as a focal point in a shaded border. It can also be used in mass plantings or as a solitary specimen.

 Wildlife: The flowers attract a variety of pollinators, while the blue-black fruit that follows the flowering season provides food for birds.

Deer and Rabbits: The plant is somewhat resistant to deer, although not completely deer-proof. Rabbits may browse young shoots, but mature plants are generally less affected.

Toxicity: The plant is generally non-toxic for humans and pets, but consumption in large quantities can cause mild stomach discomfort.

Invasiveness: Being a cultivar, it is less likely to become invasive than its wild counterparts.

Benefits: The major benefits of including Golden Shadows in your garden are its multi-season interest and relatively low maintenance needs. It provides vibrant foliage, delicate white flowers, and attractive fruit, all within a manageable size. It can brighten up shady corners of the garden with its luminous leaves and serve as a focal point or backdrop to other shade-loving plants.

How to Grow and Care for Pagoda Dogwood

Light: Prefers partial shade but can tolerate some sun; too much direct sunlight can cause leaf scorch.

Soil: Well-drained, acidic to neutral soil rich in organic matter is ideal; it can tolerate a range of soil types but does not do well in waterlogged conditions.

Water: Moderate watering needs; water deeply when soil is dry to the touch. Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot.

Fertilizer: Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in the spring; avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers as they can encourage leggy growth and reduce flower production.

Pruning: Minimal pruning is needed, mainly to remove dead or diseased branches. It’s best done in late winter or early spring before new growth starts.

Propagation: Can be propagated through softwood cuttings in early summer or by seed, though cultivars may not come true to seed.

Pests and Diseases: Generally disease-resistant but can be susceptible to dogwood sawfly, dogwood borer, and scale. Potential diseases include leaf spot, dogwood anthracnose, canker, powdery mildew, and root rot; monitor and treat as needed.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy a healthy and aesthetically pleasing Pagoda Dogwood that thrives year-round, offering distinct tiered branches, spring blossoms, and, often, colorful autumn foliage.