Cornus controversa Pagoda

Cornus controversa 'Pagoda' is a striking, deciduous “wedding‑cake” tree prized for its naturally tiered, horizontal branches that build a graceful, pagoda-like silhouette as it matures. In early summer it bears flattened clusters of small, creamy‑white flowers, which can be followed by dark berries; foliage is fresh green and often develops attractive autumn tints. Best grown as an architectural specimen in fertile, humus‑rich, moist but well‑drained soil, it does well in sun or light shade and benefits from a sheltered position away from cold, drying winds. Ultimately a sizeable tree, it is ideal for lawns, woodland edges or as a focal point where its layered habit can be appreciated.

To help give a clear sense of scale, the stone wall shown in our photos measures approximately 265cm in height. We also use familiar garden tools as visual references: a digging fork (110cm tall) and a hand fork (30cm tall). These are included purely as size guides to help you better judge proportions when viewing the images.

Position: Sun or light shade; best in a sheltered spot

Rate of Growth: Moderate

Soil: Fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained; best in neutral to acid soils

Hardiness: Fully hardy

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Plant at a Glance