SGT. Pepper Tatarian Dogwood (PW)

Overview

Botanical name: Cornus alba ‘Verpaalen2’ (trade name Sgt. Pepper® Tatarian Dogwood) 
Common name: Tatarian Dogwood ‘Sgt. Pepper’
Hardiness Zones: 3–7 
Size: Typically ~4‑6 ft tall × ~6‑8 ft wide (≈1.2‑1.8 m × 1.8‑2.4 m) 
Key features:

• Variegated foliage (green & white with hints of pink) in spring & summer, turning bright pink/burgundy margins in fall.

• Red stems in winter for added interest. 

• White flowers in spring (on old wood) 

• Good adaptability to different soils including moist sites. 

Light & Site Requirements

• Sun to part sun: Works in full sun or partial shade (minimum ~4 hours direct/bright light). 

• Soil: Prefers moist, well‑drained soil, though very adaptable. Tolerates wet spots (rain gardens, slopes) and also performs well in average soils. 

• Spacing: Given spread ~6‑8 ft wide, space accordingly (for example 5‑6 ft apart for hedge or mass planting).

Watering & Maintenance

• Water thoroughly at planting and during the first season while root system establishes. 

• Once established — moderately tolerant of drought, though best colour and vigour if moisture is consistent. 

• Pruning: To maintain vivid stem colour and healthy habit: annually (late winter/early spring) remove ~1/3 of oldest stems to ground level to encourage new growth that has the best winter colouring. 

Special Notes for Cold/Winter & Zone 3

• Rated hardy to Zone 3, making it suitable for northern climates and prairie landscapes. 

• Because of its winter stem colour, it adds interest even in dormant season — good for winter landscapes.

• In exposed or dry soil sites, mulch and ensure protection in first year to help establish.

• Since stems coloured year to year show best on younger wood, the pruning strategy helps keep a fresh display of colour.

Pests, Diseases & Considerations

• Generally robust and low‑maintenance.

• Some typical dogwood issues (in poorly drained soils) such as root issues; good drainage is beneficial. 

• Because of colour change and vigorous nature, can spread via suckers (check spacing if using as hedge).

• Good deer resistance noted (as many dogwoods are less browsed) though always check local browsing pressure.

Uses & Landscape Applications

• Excellent as a specimen shrub or focal feature in a garden bed.

• Works well in hedge or screen where width allows; especially good for winter interest low hedge.

• Effective in rain gardens or moist spots because of tolerance to wetter soils.

• Useful in mass plantings for colour impact (foliage variegation + red winter stems).

• Suitable for foundation plantings, mixed shrub borders, contrast plantings (especially with evergreen backdrops or perennials).

Photo from Proven Winners