Cornus alba Baton Rouge is an upright to rounded, deciduous shrub with scarlet winter shoots and ovate, dark green leaves often turning orange or red in autumn. Flat clusters of spring-time cream flowers that attract the bees are followed by white, sometimes blue-flushed berries. A superb plant for winter drama.

It is best cultivated in a moist position and is ideal for water gardens, looking superb reflected in ponds. Try in a large pot or planted as a hedge for dramatic effect.

The plants can become woody with age, so to maintain the bright colours it is advisable to prune almost to the ground each March. DOn't panic, as it will regrow swiftly!