A bushy hardy deciduous shrub with dark-purple to deep-green foliage that turns a vibrant purple-red in autumn. Clusters of small, creamy-white blooms appear above the leaves in late spring, followed by dark blue berries. Height 1.5m and Spread 1.5m. Prefers full sun or partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. Hardy.
Cornus alba ‘Nightfall’ is a bushy deciduous shrub valued for its dark purple to deep green foliage, creamy-white spring flowers, dark blue berries, and vibrant purple-red autumn colour. Its compact habit makes it an attractive choice for mixed borders, shrub beds, and seasonal planting schemes.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
Spring: Plant Cornus alba ‘Nightfall’ in spring when the soil is workable and beginning to warm. This gives the roots plenty of time to establish before vigorous new growth develops.
Early Autumn: Alternatively, early autumn planting allows the root system to establish while the soil retains warmth, helping the shrub settle before dormancy.
Site Selection
Sunlight: Cornus alba ‘Nightfall’ grows well in full sun or partial shade. A bright position can help encourage strong growth and enhance the rich colouring of the foliage.
Soil: Choose moist, fertile, well-drained soil. Incorporating compost or well-rotted organic matter before planting will improve soil structure and help maintain consistent moisture.
Planting Instructions
Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole approximately twice the width and the same depth as the root ball, allowing plenty of space for the roots to spread.
Soil Preparation: Mix compost or well-rotted organic matter into the excavated soil to improve fertility and moisture retention.
Planting: Position Cornus alba ‘Nightfall’ with the top of the root ball level with the surrounding soil. Backfill carefully and firm the soil gently around the roots.
Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly to settle the soil and encourage strong root establishment.
Watering Requirements
Growing Season: Keep the soil consistently moist during the establishment period and provide additional water during prolonged dry spells.
Dormant Season: Established Cornus alba ‘Nightfall’ generally requires less watering during dormancy, although newly planted shrubs should not be allowed to dry out completely.
Feeding
Spring: Apply a balanced general-purpose fertiliser around the base in early spring to support healthy foliage and vigorous new growth.
Mid-Season: Additional feeding is usually unnecessary in fertile soil, although a light feed can benefit plants growing in poorer conditions.
Pruning
Routine Pruning: Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches to maintain a healthy, well-shaped shrub.
Seasonal Care: Prune Cornus alba ‘Nightfall’ in early spring before vigorous new growth begins. Established plants can be cut back more firmly when required to encourage fresh stems and maintain a compact shape.
Mulching
Spring: Apply a generous layer of organic mulch around the base to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and gradually improve the soil.
Later in the Year: Replenish the mulch when necessary, keeping it slightly away from the main stems to prevent excessive moisture around the base.
Supporting the Plant
Natural Habit: Cornus alba ‘Nightfall’ develops a naturally bushy structure and does not normally require staking once established. Newly planted specimens in exposed locations may benefit from temporary support.
Final Tips
Cornus alba ‘Nightfall’ is a hardy, low-maintenance shrub offering interest across several seasons, from spring flowers and summer foliage to berries and spectacular autumn colour. With moist, well-drained soil, regular watering while establishing, and straightforward pruning, Cornus alba ‘Nightfall’ will develop into an attractive and reliable garden shrub.
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