Cornus ‘Venus’ (Giant-Flowered Dogwood)

Price range: €120.00 through €205.00

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SKU: N/A Categories: All Plants, All Shrubs, All Trees & Plants, Deciduous Shrubs, Mature Shrubs, Spring Flowering Tags: Cornus Venus, giant dogwood

Description
Additional information

Description

Quick Facts

Botanical Name: Cornus ‘Venus’
Common Name: Giant-Flowered Dogwood
Plant Type: Deciduous small tree / large shrub
Mature Size: Approx. 4–6m tall x 3–5m wide (over time)
Position: Sun or partial shade (sheltered is best)
Soil: Moist but free-draining, humus-rich, slightly acidic to neutral
Hardiness: Very hardy in Ireland & the UK once established
Best Feature: Enormous creamy-white “flowers” (bracts) in early summer, plus rich autumn colour

A Standout at RHS Chelsea

There are plants that are beautiful… and then there are plants that stop you mid-step. Cornus ‘Venus’ is firmly in the second camp — and it’s no surprise it’s been turning heads as a standout at this year’s RHS Chelsea.

In early summer, it dresses itself in oversized, creamy-white bracts (often 12–15cm across) that glow in the garden like lanterns. The effect is elegant, uplifting, and quietly dramatic — the kind of plant that makes a space feel considered, calm, and just a little bit special.

Why We Love It

Big, luminous blooms that read from a distance (and look even better up close)
A graceful, architectural shape as it matures — perfect as a focal point
Season-long interest: fresh green leaves in spring, showy flowers in summer, then deep reds and purples in autumn
A “garden-maker” for anyone who wants impact without fuss

Where to Plant Cornus ‘Venus’

This is a plant that deserves a little stage of its own. Give it space to spread and let the flowers be seen — near a patio, at the end of a view, or as a centrepiece in a lawn or generous border.

It’s happiest in sun or dappled shade, somewhere sheltered from harsh winds, in soil that doesn’t dry out completely in summer.

Care Notes

Watering: Water well in the first 1–2 seasons, especially in dry spells.
Mulch: A spring mulch (composted bark/leaf mould) helps keep roots cool and soil moist.
Pruning: Minimal. Remove any dead, damaged or crossing branches in late winter/early spring.
Feeding: A balanced spring feed supports strong growth and flowering.

Caragh Garden Notebook

If you’re building a garden that feels like a place to exhale — somewhere you’ll want to linger with a cup of tea, or wander out barefoot on a bright June morning — Cornus ‘Venus’ is one of those rare plants that brings instant atmosphere. It’s soft, romantic, and confident all at once. A true showpiece, without ever shouting.

Additional information

Pot Size	15L 125-150cm, 5L 60-60cm, 10L 80-100cm

Cornus ‘Venus’ (Giant-Flowered Dogwood)