Elegant structure and color. Golden Shadows ® is a beautiful pagoda dogwood ( Cornus alternifolia, syn. Swida alternifolia ) noted for its distinctive color and elegant, horizontal habit. Its large heart-shaped leaves are bright yellow, dotted with an irregular green thumbprint, and the new growth flushes reddish orange in cool conditions. Attractive lacy white flowers in spring add to its charm. Happiest in filtered shade - a boon for such sites!