Large deciduous shrub growing to 6m, with ovate, bronze leaves in summer, turning a striking reddish purple in autumn. Equally attractive are the flower heads, with their distinctive Cornus ruby-pink bracts in late spring.

H x S: 6m x 6m

Aspect and soil: Any soil except chalky, and best in neutral to acid, well-drained soil, in sun or part shade.

Use: good in small gardens, in contemporary designs but also fits well in classic borders underplanted with pink- and white-flowering perennials.

Care: a naturally well-branched shrub that requires no regular pruning other than removing dead, diseased or broken branches.

Wildlife: —

Hazard: —

Origin: Northeast North America

Hardiness: H5