A Shrub for All Seasons
As gardeners, we dedicate plenty of time and effort to creating a beautiful garden. Given all the care we put in, it’s only natural to want to enjoy it for as long as possible. With Sgt. Pepper® dogwood (Cornus alba), you can do just that. This shrub offers year-round beauty with striking foliage that changes with each season, giving you something fresh to admire all year long.
Sgt. Pepper® dogwood offers three distinct color variations throughout the year. In spring, its variegated foliage emerges green with soft pink margins, gradually fading to white and green by summer. As fall arrives, the foliage takes on a pink tint once again, this time featuring vibrant pink edges with rich burgundy centers.
In winter, its bright red stems add a splash of color to the landscape and serve as a perfect addition to seasonal arrangements. Not only is it a standout for its foliage, but it also produces delicate white flowers in the spring, adding to its overall charm in the garden.
Sgt. Pepper® dogwood is suited to USDA zones 3-7. Preferring full to partial sun, it grows to a height of 4-6 feet and spreads 6-8 feet wide. While it does best in moist soil, it is adaptable and can tolerate some drought once established. In terms of pruning, a yearly rejuvenation prune in late winter/early spring will help the branches achieve their brightest color.
Winter Standouts and Plant Care
Curious about how Sgt. Pepper® dogwood looks in a winter landscape? Watch the video below, where Rick and Stacey guide you through a winter garden, highlighting shrubs that add interest and offering tips for keeping your plants healthy throughout the season.