Jesse Saylor
Family
Cornaceae
Botanical Name
CORNUS florida 'Welchii'
Plant Common Name
Flowering Dogwood, Variegated Flowering Dogwood
Special Notice
This entry has yet to be reviewed and approved by L2G editors.
General Description
Flowering dogwood is a true harbinger of spring. Native to the woodlands of southeastern North America, this medium-sized tree has an elegant spreading canopy. In mid-spring it presents small clusters of green flowers surrounded by four large creamy white or rosy pink bracts. These are followed by clusters of bright red, berry-like fruits which are eaten by songbirds. The oval green leaves of this fine ornamental turn purple-red in fall.
Though sun and shade tolerant, flowering dogwood looks best when grown in a partial sun exposure and is adapted to a wide range of well drained, fertile soil types. Enjoy it as a specimen tree or massed in a wooded garden with other early flowering trees like eastern redbud (Cercis canadensis). Flowering dogwood is highly susceptible to dogwood anthracnose and powdery mildew, but resistant selections are available. Full sun exposures in hot summer climates should be avoided for best tree performance.
Characteristics
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AHS Heat Zone
9 - 3
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USDA Hardiness Zone
5 - 9
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Sunset Zone
2b, 3a, 3b, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16
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Plant Type
Tree
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Sun Exposure
Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade
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Height
20'-40' / 6.1m - 12.2m
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Width
25'-35' / 7.6m - 10.7m
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Bloom Time
Spring
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Native To
North America, Northeastern United States, Mid-Atlantic United States, Southeastern United States, North-Central United States, Central United States, South-Central United States, Texas, Canada
