This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.

• Position: full sun to partial shade
• Soil: fertile, humus-rich, well-drained, neutral to acid soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: May and June
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  Showy white petal-like flower bracts look really pretty when they appear in late spring and early summer, framed by a collar of rich green leaves. After they fade, they are followed in autumn by a jaunty cluster of bright red berries. This creeping dogwood is an attractive groundcover for the front of a shrub border or woodland garden. It performs best in a partially shaded spot in fertile, humus-rich, well-drained, neutral to acid soil.
  
  
• Garden care: Incorporate a quantity of composted pine needles or well-rotted leaf mould when planting. Divide large colonies of plants in spring or autumn.