Cornus alba Argenteo-marginata

Variegated tartarian dogwood

Cornus alba ‘Argenteo-marginata’ is a striking variegated red-twig dogwood prized for its showy, creamy-edged foliage, bold winter stem color, and excellent multi-season interest. A classic selection in landscapes, it’s appreciated for both its ornamental stems in winter and bright variegation in the growing season.


Plant Profile
Type: Deciduous shrub

Mature Size:



Height: 6–8 ft



Width: 6–10 ft



Foliage:



Glossy green leaves edged with creamy white margins



Provides bright, contrasting color through spring and summer



Winter Stems:



Stems mature to orange-red to red tones in winter — excellent structural interest



Blooms:



Small, creamy white clusters in late spring to early summer (form follows function; flowers are modest)



Fall Color:



Leaves commonly turn reddish or purplish before dropping



Zones: 3a–7b
Light: Full sun to partial shade (best variegation in sun)
Soil: Moist, well-drained soils; adaptable to clay or loam
Water: Moderate; tolerates periodic wet soil once established


Features & Uses


Form: Upright, arching habit with multi-stemmed structure



Excellent for foundation plantings, mixed shrub borders, screens, and hedges



Variegated foliage brightens shady areas and pairs well with darker evergreens



Winter twig color adds year-round interest — plant where stems can be seen in winter



Works beautifully with perennials, ornamental grasses, and flowering shrubs




Care Notes


Pruning: Light pruning in late winter; remove oldest stems at ground level to encourage vigorous, brightly colored new stems



Mulch: Conserves moisture and suppresses weeds

Plant type

Flowering Deciduous Shrub

Height

6-8'

Width

6-8'

Hardiness zones

3–7

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Late Spring

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Fern, Ivory

Fall color

Red

Soil

Clay, Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Foundation Plant, Hedge, Mass Planting

Shape

Clump, Upright

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No