Colored bark, lush growth, pretty flowers and interesting (and often edible) berries: the dogwood (Cornus), also known as the horn bush, meets numerous requirements for a garden tree. Although the - depending on the species - shrub or small tree grows rather slowly in the first few years, it reaches heights of up to 10 meters and can be almost as wide - perfect for planting a hedge.
Which dogwood species are suitable as a hedge?
A dogwood hedge is ideal for the garden as it is robust, tolerates pruning and is visually appealing. Popular species for hedges include Cornus alba (White Dogwood), Cornus stolonifera (Yellowwood Dogwood), Cornus mas (Yellow Dogwood) and Cornus sanguinea (Red Dogwood).
Dogwood is vigorous and robust
In addition to the visual advantages, there is the fact that most dogwood species are considered to be quite undemanding, robust and also very easy to cut. Basically, there is a suitable 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 light partial shade, but you can also find shade-tolerant varieties here. Another point in favor of the dogwood as a hedge plant is the fact that this plant doesn't mind even more radical pruning.
The most beautiful dogwood species for a hedge plant
About 55 different dogwood species are known worldwide, most of which occur in the temperate climatic zones of the northern hemisphere. Of course, not all of them are suitable for a hedge, but we will introduce you to the most beautiful types and varieties here.
White dogwood (Cornus alba)
The varieties Cornus alba 'Sibirica' (redwood dogwood) with its striking red branches and Cornus alba 'Kesselringii' (blackwood dogwood 'Kesselringii') with its shiny black shoots are particularly suitable for hedge planting. Both species grow to around two meters high and up to one and a half meters wide, making them 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 branches. The plant, which grows up to 2.50 meters high and is quite wide, 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 cornelian cherries that ripen in autumn can be made 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 particularly robust and easy to care for.
Tip
Dogwoods need space, so you should space the individual plants for a hedge about one meter apart.
