Cornus Mas Elegant

Elegant Cornelius Cherry

Botanical name: Cornus mas ‘Elegantissima’ (often sold as ‘Elegant’)

Overview
A refined variegated form of Cornelian cherry dogwood valued for its gray-green leaves edged in creamy white that brighten the landscape all season. Clusters of bright yellow flowers appear in very early spring before leaf-out, followed by glossy foliage and edible red fruits in late summer. Fall color may include soft yellow to reddish tones. ‘Elegantissima’ combines the toughness of the species with ornamental foliage contrast.

Size



Width: 15–20 ft



Height: 15–25 ft



Hardiness



USDA Zones: 4a–8b



Light



Full sun to partial shade



Best foliage color and flowering occur in full sun



Soil



Well-drained soils; adaptable to clay, loam, or sandy soils



Tolerates slightly alkaline to slightly acidic pH



Avoid poorly drained sites



Attracts



Pollinators (early flowers)



Birds (fruit)



Wildlife (food source)



Suitable Conditions



Performs well in cold to moderate climates



Highly adaptable and tolerant of urban conditions



Allow space for spreading canopy and branching structure



Notes



Shape: Upright oval when young, maturing to rounded or multi-stemmed



Variegated foliage provides season-long interest



One of the earliest flowering woody plants



Excellent specimen, hedge, or accent tree



Minimal pruning required; prune only for shaping or structure

Plant type

Flowering Shrub

Height

15-25'

Width

15-20'

Hardiness zones

4–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Early Spring

Flower color

Yellow

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Red Violet, Vanilla

Attracts

Birds

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Specimen

Shape

Broad Upright, Horizontal Branching

Fruit

Yes

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No