Overview
Teutonia is an extraordinary Japanese dogwood that is valued most for its exquisite edible fruit.
Description
Like most flowering Dogwoods, the Teutonia produces an abundance of flowers in June. The small green flower heads are surrounded by four creamy-white bracts in the summer that are approximately 6-8cm each. These large bracts gradually start to become speckled in light pink as they mature. The summer leaves are a vibrant green that turn to purple-red in the autumn. After flowering, the Teutonia produces an edible litchi-like fruit that has bright pink skin with soft, delicious flesh. This is the tastiest of the varietes and the birds will be in competition for them too!
Planting Position
Planted in a sunny position in the shelter of other trees will allow this flowering Dogwood to thrive well. Although it will grow perfectly happy in semi-shade, be mindful that their flower production will not be as intense. Ensure the fertile and humus-rich soil is moist and well-drained. They prefer to be planted deeply in neutral to acid soil and will not tolerate shallow chalky soils.
Attributes
Providing all year round interest with it's abundant display of flowers appearing in young plants followed by the edible berries attracting many birds and the autumn purple-red foliage, the Milky Way is ideal for specimen planting as a focal point in a garden.
