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Cornus angustata Empress of China®

Evergreen and loaded with flowers

Empress of China was selected by our friend and noted plantsman, John Elsley. Empress of China has an exceptional number of flowers, amazingly beautiful fruit and unheard of garden vigor. Glossy, leathery, bright green leaves average 3 inches long, and persist through the winter months, then slough off after the new growth emerges in spring.

The flowers open lime green and mature to a creamy white, and are so dense that an Empress of China in full bloom will stop passers-by. Once the blooms drop, they’re followed by strawberry-like red fruit that attracts songbirds for a late summer and fall feast. Empress of China can take the heat and humidity of the deep south,  thriving in Texas, and living just as happily in Maryland. It prefers partial shade, especially in the deep south.

Who Am I?

  • Common Name:
    Empress of China dogwood
  • Botanical Name:
    Cornus angustata 'Elsbry' PP14537
  • Type:
    Tree
  • Evergreen:
    YES

Cultural Details

TYPE

Tree

EVERGREEN

YES
  • Light:
    Part sun- prefers afternoon shade
  • Soil:
    Average garden soil, well drained.
  • Moisture:
    Moist, but well drained
  • Hardiness Zone
    6 – 9
  • Bloom Time:
    May
  • Bloom Color:
    White
  • Size:
    15-18' tall by 13-15' wide
  • Diseases & Pests:
    None known

What Makes Me Special?

An evergreen Chinese Dogwood with a graceful, yet vigorous habit and loads of flowers. Each branch holds up to 150 white blooms that eventually transform into translucent strawberry-like fruit. Empress of China will light up your partly-shaded garden year-round color and excitement!

Landscape Use

Specimen, mixed borders

Propagation

Tissue Culture

Who Am I?

  • Common Name:
    Empress of China dogwood
  • Botanical Name:
    Cornus angustata 'Elsbry' PP14537
  • Type:
    Tree
  • Evergreen:
    YES

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