Colorful bark, lush growth, pretty flowers and interesting (and often edible) berries: the dogwood (Cornus), also known as the horn bush, fulfills numerous requirements for a garden tree. Depending on the species, the shrub or small tree grows rather slowly in the first few years, but it can reach heights of up to 10 meters and almost as wide - perfect for planting a hedge.
Dogwood grows fast and dense: the perfect hedge plant!
Dogwood is vigorous and robust
In addition to the visual advantages, most dogwood species are considered to be quite undemanding, robust and also very tolerant of pruning. Basically, there is the right Cornus for every location: some of these trees prefer slightly acidic, moist soil, while others thrive better on a calcareous subsoil. Furthermore, many dogwoods feel most comfortable in the light penumbra, but you will also find shade-tolerant varieties here. Another point in favor of the dogwood as a hedge plant is the fact that this plant does not take offense to more radical pruning.
The most beautiful dogwood species for a hedge plantation
Around 55 different dogwood species are known worldwide, most of which are found in the temperate climate zones of the northern hemisphere. Of course, not all of them are suitable for a hedge, but we will present the most beautiful types and varieties to you here.
White Dogwood (Cornus alba)
The varieties Cornus alba 'Sibirica' (redwood dogwood) with its eye-catching red branches and Cornus alba 'Kesselringii' (blackwood dogwood 'Kesselringii') with the shiny black shoots are particularly suitable for hedge planting. Both species are about two meters high and up to one and a half meters wide, so they are particularly suitable for low hedges.
Yellowwood Dogwood (Cornus stolonifera)
The variety Cornus stolonifera 'Flaviramea' (yellowwood dogwood) stands out in the cold season with its yellowish twigs. The plant, which grows up to 2.50 meters high and grows quite broadly, shows its white-yellow flowers in the months of May to June.
Yellow dogwood (Cornus mas)
The cornelian cherry, which blooms very early and bright yellow, is a native plant that has adapted perfectly to the local weather conditions. The red cornel cherries that ripen in autumn can be processed into jams and jellies.
Red Dogwood (Cornus sanguinea)
The red dogwood, which grows up to five meters high, is also a native species. It is considered to be particularly robust and easy to care for.
tips
Dogwoods need space, so plant each plant about a meter apart for a hedge.