Cornus controversa Laska

The Cornus controversa Laska is a variety of Pagoda Dogwood that stands out for its narrow habit, which is well-suited for small gardens. It is also easily recognizable by its much longer leaves compared to its counterparts, giving it a unique appearance. The white flowering in May-June is classic, and later develops into small decorative blue-black fruits. In autumn, its foliage turns reddish before falling to the ground. Compact and uncommon, this beautiful shrub deserves a place in the garden, in full sun or partial shade, in a moist, non-calcareous soil.

The Dogwood belongs to the small family of Cornaceae, which, after several revisions of the botanical classification, now only includes the genera Cornus and Alangium. There are several dozen species of Dogwoods, most of which are shrubs, but some, like Cornus nuttallii and C. kousa, form small trees. This is also the case with C. controversa, native to China, Korea, and Japan, where it can reach a height of up to 12m. It has a straight trunk and horizontal layers of vegetation, reminiscent of the distinctive architecture of pagodas in the Far East, from which it gets its common name. Along with C. alternifolia, it is the only species with alternate leaves, rather than opposite leaves.
The Cornus controversa Laska is a variety with much slower growth than the typical botanical species. After 10 years of planting, with an annual growth of 15 to 30cm, it will only reach a height of 3m with a spread of about 1.50 to 2m, whereas most others tend to spread, which actually enhances their tiered (pagoda-like) foliage better than him. However, Laska compensates with its unique foliage, much narrower and very aesthetic. Measuring up to 13cm long, the leaves are medium to dark green, paler on the underside, with clearly visible veins, and are carried by flexible 4cm petioles. Elongated, almost lanceolate, they tend to droop downwards, giving the shrub an unusual silhouette among this group of Dogwoods.
From May to June, inflorescences measuring 10 to 12cm in diameter form, called cymes, with an almost flat top, cream-white in colour, composed of numerous slightly fragrant flowers. They then develop into small spherical fruits that turn blue-black from August onwards, adding new ornamental interest to the plant. Finally, the autumn climax arrives, when the foliage turns shades of red that capture everyone's attention.

This compact Pagoda Dogwood will find its place even in the most intimate gardens. Its design will be appreciated in contemporary spaces, and it can also be integrated into a Japanese scene. Plant other flowering shrubs alongside it, such as Azaleas, which will reward you with their vibrant trumpet-shaped flowers in yellow, pink, red, orange, purple, and even bicolour, depending on the varieties you choose. Also, consider the Mountain Laurels, like Kalmia latifolia Latchmin, with its astonishing precious and original purple flowers. These underrated acid-loving shrubs are among the most beautiful spring blooms. Complete your scene with the delightful Acer japonicum Vitifolium, a Japanese Maple that is easier to grow than its counterparts and will delight you with its tender green palmate leaves in spring, turning into fabulous shades of bright orange and crimson red in autumn.