Celestial Shadow Dogwood

Celestial Shadow Dogwood (Cornus � rutgersensis 'Celestial Shadow')

Celestial Shadow Dogwood (Cornus � rutgersensis 'Celestial Shadow') is a striking variegated hybrid flowering dogwood, bred from Cornus kousa and Cornus florida. It combines luminous spring flowers with vivid variegated foliage, offering four seasons of visual interest and outstanding landscape performance. This cultivar is part of the Rutgers Stellar� Series, known for exceptional vigor and disease resistance.

Distinctive Features

'Celestial Shadow' sets itself apart with golden-yellow variegation that edges each dark green leaf, creating a bright, marbled appearance that intensifies through summer. In spring, creamy white flower bracts emerge just as the foliage fills out, creating a dramatic layered effect. Come autumn, the foliage turns brilliant shades of red, orange, and pink, delivering a vibrant fall finale. The tree grows with a uniform, rounded habit, developing a refined silhouette over time. Its sterile nature prevents fruit drop, keeping the canopy clean and focused on foliage and bloom.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil
• Water: Moderate; benefits from consistent moisture during establishment
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5�8

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Bold variegated foliage and layered spring bloom create an eye-catching centerpiece
• Specimen Tree: Makes a dynamic addition to front yards or featured garden beds
• Mixed Borders: Adds multi-season contrast when paired with evergreens or darker foliage plants
• Shade Gardens: Brightens lightly shaded areas with its vibrant leaf color
• Urban Landscapes: Performs well in residential or commercial plantings thanks to its disease resistance

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Maintain even moisture, especially in dry spells or during the first two years
• Pruning: Minimal pruning needed; prune after flowering to shape if necessary
• Fertilizing: Apply a slow-release fertilizer in spring to support vibrant foliage and healthy growth
• Mulching: Keep mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature
• Protection: Naturally resistant to dogwood anthracnose and powdery mildew

Why Choose Celestial Shadow Dogwood?

• Unique Variegation: Bright yellow leaf margins add vivid, season-long contrast
• Reliable Blooms: Creamy white flowers arrive in late spring and persist into early summer
• Exceptional Fall Color: Leaves turn fiery tones for a bold autumn display
• Disease Resistance: Bred for performance and longevity without disease concerns
• Focal Point: An ornamental standout ideal for landscapes that value foliage as much as flowers

Cornus � rutgersensis 'Celestial Shadow' offers a rare combination of variegated foliage, long-lasting blooms, and low-maintenance structure�making it an ideal focal point for gardens that demand multi-season beauty with minimal fuss.