Tartarian Dogwood
Cornus alba
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Pl. BAFC — Cornus alba
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IOverview
Overview
Tartarian Dogwood (Cornus alba) is a deciduous shrub native to eastern Asia and parts of Europe, including regions such as Altay, Amur, Buryatiya, Central European Rus, China North-Central, and China Southeast. This plant thrives in moist, wet conditions with light soil types, ranging from sandy to clay, and prefers full sun to partial shade. It is hardy in zones 3-7, making it suitable for temperate regions. Known for its ornamental value, Tartarian Dogwood is cultivated for its striking red stems that stand out against winter landscapes, and its white, star-shaped flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. The plant's edible berries are a source of food in some areas, adding to its practical use. Its fast growth and adaptability to various soil types make it a popular choice for gardeners and landscapers. Regular watering is essential to maintain the plant's health, especially during dry periods. While primarily used for its ornamental and edible qualities, Tartarian Dogwood is also valued for its oil, which can be extracted from the plant.
Quick answers
What is Tartarian Dogwood?
Tartarian Dogwood (Cornus alba) is a deciduous shrub native to eastern Asia and parts of Europe, including regions such as Altay, Amur, Buryatiya, Central European Rus, China North-Central, and China Southeast.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Tartarian Dogwood thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist to wet soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 3-7, making it suitable for temperate regions. For propagation, gardeners can use stem cuttings or division methods. Regular watering is essential, especially in dry periods, to keep the soil consistently moist. While it can tolerate a range of soil types, well-draining soil is recommended to prevent root rot.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist, Wet
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
3-7
Mature size
3.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Tartarian Dogwood for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Tartarian Dogwood to experience the basics of growing a hardy shrub.
- 1
What you'll need
Tartarian Dogwood saplings, garden gloves, spade or trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late autumn for best results.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining but moisture-retentive. Amend with compost if necessary.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant saplings into a prepared hole, ensuring the root ball is level with the ground.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for signs of stress.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun or partial shade and regular watering during dry spells. Prune lightly in late winter.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune to maintain shape and remove dead branches as needed, typically in late winter.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting winter protection in colder zones.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible uses: Oil
Other uses:oil
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
24 native · 7 introduced
Distribution
24 native · 7 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 24 native· 7 introduced
Europe7 regions
native (1)Russia
introduced (6)BulgariaDenmarkFinlandNorwayPolandSweden
Asia3 regions
native (3)ChinaMongoliaSouth Korea
Broader regions
native:Altay, Amur, Buryatiya, Chita, Hainan, Irkutsk, Khabarovsk, Krasnoyarsk, Magadan, Primorye, Sakhalin, Tuva, Yakutskiya
introduced:Illinois
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · bafcd82c-83ed-4c2a-ba74-e1c9a51ef182
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