Wedding Cake Tree

Cornus controversa, known as Wedding Cake, is a particularly stunning ornamental specimen tree that develops a layered type structure, similar to the tiers of a wedding cake. 

This interesting tree has elliptically shaped deep green foliage and broad clusters of creamy white flowers which emerge after the foliage in May. In the autumn small black fruits develop as the foliage turns to a deep purple-red.

The Wedding Cake tree earns its name from the distinct tiered effect it develops as it matures, with clearly defined layers of branches.

A consistent performer; this tree will tolerate most soil types.

A small to medium-sized tree of broadly conical form at maturity which was imported from Japan and Korea in the 1880’s and won the Award of Merit in 1984. There is a simply wonderful specimen to view in Bath Botanic Garden.

Cornus controversa is an excellent choice for planting schemes which require architectural structure and as such this tree makes a magnificent centrepiece.

Being small, it is suitable for gardens and has the benefit of offering a myriad of interests throughout the seasons.

Mature height: 3-7m

Common names

Wedding Cake Tree

Height of tree

3-7m

Soil type

Well drained, Will tolerate most soil types

Shape

Broad

Blossom Colour

White

Foliage Colour

Green

Information Flags

Award

Looks good in

Summer, Spring

Location

Garden, Parkland

Genus

Cornus