This cultivar has, for the largest part, the same characteristics as its parent, the Cornus controversa. Nevertheless the ‘Variegata’ remains noticeably smaller. After many years, the tree will not exceed a height of 5m. The largest difference is in the white edged leaves, which are distinctly smaller. Furthermore, the tops of fast growing twigs turn to a pink color. The ‘Variegata’s’ autumn color is less spectacular than the controversa’s. Young twigs turn red in autumn and winter. As the twigs grow older, the color of the bark changes to grey/brown. A 1m. high Cornus controversa ‘Variegata’ can be a real eye-catcher in your garden. The multi-colored levels of this small tree come out best against a dark background, for instance a darkgreen hedge, and can bring up a dark corner of your garden nicely. This Cornus grows in full sun and in partial shade. The ‘Variegata’ can be trimmed, but due to its very slow growth it will not be necessary. Trimming will also affect its natural growth habit. An important point for attention is that this cultivar is grafted; therefore it is possible that green twigs emerge from the base of this plant. It is important to remove these twigs at the most early stage. This is to be done as close as possible to the stem and with a sharp trimming knife. Cornus controversa ‘Variegata’ is winterproof.