Cornus ‘Magic Flame’ – A Spectacle of Fiery Winter Stem Colour and Autumn Glow
Cornus ‘Magic Flame’ is a captivating deciduous shrub admired for its stunning, fiery winter stem colour that instantly brightens any garden during the colder months. The vivid red and orange hues of its stems provide architectural interest when most plants are bare, making it a striking focal point throughout winter.
In the warmer seasons, ‘Magic Flame’ displays glossy, deep green leaves that mature into a breathtaking display of reds, oranges, and purples in autumn, extending its seasonal appeal. Small clusters of creamy white flowers appear in late spring, followed by dark berries that attract birds.
Growing to around 2–3 metres tall and wide, this shrub thrives in well-drained soil with full sun to partial shade, where it shows best stem colour and vibrant autumn foliage.
Why Choose Cornus ‘Magic Flame’?
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Fiery Winter Stems – Bright red and orange stems create winter drama.
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Vivid Autumn Foliage – Leaves transform into rich red, orange, and purple tones.
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Wildlife Friendly – Flowers and berries attract pollinators and birds.
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Compact Size – Perfect for mixed borders, shrub beds, and small gardens.
Planting & Care Guide
Position: Full sun to partial shade to maximise stem colour.
Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soil but tolerates a variety of conditions.
Watering: Regular watering during establishment; drought tolerant once mature.
Feeding: Apply balanced fertiliser in early spring to support healthy growth.
Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth and maintain vibrant stem colour.
Design & Planting Ideas
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Use as a winter feature shrub to add colour and structure.
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Combine with evergreens for contrast and texture.
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Ideal for wildlife gardens that attract birds and pollinators.
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Works well in naturalistic or mixed shrub borders for year-round interest.