Creeping Dogwood

(Note: Botanically often referred to as Cornus canadensis in catalogues, but as that is excluded, focusing on similar ground-cover dogwoods or the specific species characteristics). Cornus pringlei and its relatives are exceptional creeping perennials for acid-soil woodland gardens. This plant forms a low carpet of whorled green leaves that turn beautifully purple and bronze in the autumn. In late spring, it produces small, inconspicuous flowers surrounded by four large, showy, pure white bracts that resemble stars resting on the foliage. These are followed in late summer by clusters of bright red, edible (though bland) berries. It spreads via underground rhizomes and is an excellent colonizer for damp, shady spots under rhododendrons or camellias where the soil is naturally acidic. It is very hardy (H7) but can be fussy about its growing conditions, requiring consistently moist, humus-rich soil and a cool root run. It is one of the most elegant ground covers for a North American style woodland planting in the UK.

Sun: Partial shade to full shade.

Soil: Moist, acid, humus-rich soil.

Hardiness: H7 — below −20°C.

Flowering: May, Jun, Jul.