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Flowering dogwood
Also known as: Flowering cornel
Flowering dogwood (Cornus florida) is a small North American tree renowned for its wide canopy and plentiful spring blooms. Individual white or pink “flower” is actually a flower head that contains four oval bracts and a cluster of tiny yellow true flowers. Because of its decorative canopy, prolific spring blooming, and attractive red autumn leaves and berries, it is the most popular native tree in US gardens.
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Perennial
Lifespan
Tree
Plant Type
Spring
Bloom Time
Summer, Fall
Harvest Time
6 m to 10 m
Plant Height
8 m
Spread
Green, Red, Purple, Yellow, Variegated
Leaf Color
7 cm to 10 cm
Flower Size
Red, Green
Fruit Color
White, Pink, Green
Flower Color
Red, Purple, Green
Stem Color
Winter dormancy
Dormancy
Deciduous
Leaf type
5 - 35 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Moderate
Growth Rate

Images of Flowering dogwood

Attributes of Flowering dogwood

Growth Rate
Exhibiting a moderate growth rate, flowering dogwood experiences a significant surge in development during spring and summer. This rate corresponds with enhanced leaf production and an increase in overall plant height, notable over these warmer seasons. Noteworthy is that flowering dogwood's moderate pace aids in its dense branching pattern, contributing to its highly ornamental appeal. However, growth rate somewhat dampens as summer wanes, manifesting flowering dogwood's partial dormancy during cooler seasons.

Distribution of Flowering dogwood

Distribution Map
Flowering dogwood is native to eastern North America from Ontario to Mexico, where it can be found growing in woodlands, floodplains, and ravines. This plant is cultivated throughout its native range for use in landscaping, but has not been exported elsewhere.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Introduced
No species reported
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Habitat
Acidic woods, deciduous woods
Hemisphere Trend Curve
Flowering
Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use
Flowering dogwood is considered one of the, if not the, most popular flowering trees in North America. The lovely spring flowers, summer fruit, fall foliage, and elegant winter branches give it year-long beauty. Many gardeners plant flowering dogwood in groups, along borders, or as a specimen piece in cottage or prairie/meadow gardens, as its size and beauty make it very versatile. Potential companion plants are numerous and include hostas, astilbes, and azaleas.
Symbolism
Wishes, Protection, charm, purity, renewal, the coming of spring
Interesting Facts
Today, flowering dogwood is almost exclusively a decorative plant. However, historically it had other uses: as a supposed malaria treatment, the source for red dyes and inks, and material for the production of hard objects like tool handles, mallets, and golf club heads. It was also used to treat mange in dogs, which creates another hypothesis on how it got its name.
Name Story
Flowering dogwood: The word “dogwood” is derived from “dagwood” referring to the usage of hard wood or roots in the making of sharp objects such as daggers, bamboo skewers, etc. As its flowers are remarkably beautiful as well, it is called the flowering dogwood.
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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Flowering dogwood, including the following common varieties :

Quickly Identify Flowering dogwood

1
Showy, notched bracts surrounding inconspicuous green flowers in early spring.
2
Glossy red drupes in clusters of 3-4, favored by birds in late summer.
3
Opposite, acuminate leaves with dull green upper and pubescent glaucous underside.
4
Slender stem with powdery coating turning smooth, bark breaking into blocks.
5
Mature trunk with patchwork of small scaly blocks in gray to black shades.
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RELATED: How to identify Flowering dogwood

Care Guide for Flowering dogwood

Every 1-2 weeks
Water
Partial sun
Sunlight
5 - 35 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Water: Flowering dogwood originates from eastern North American forests, preferring moist, well-drained soils and moderate humidity. Ideal watering is every 1-2 weeks, with reduced needs during winter dormancy, making it suitable for outdoor cultivation in compatible climate conditions.
Fertilize: For flowering dogwood, apply balanced fertilizers (2 oz of 10-10-10 per year of age, max 12 oz) annually in early spring. Switch to low-nitrogen formulas in fall. Adjust amounts for growth stages and water thoroughly after fertilization to prevent root burn, promoting robust growth and blooms.
Pruning: For optimal growth, prune flowering dogwood in early spring before new growth. Focus on removing dead or diseased branches and crossing stems to enhance air circulation and sunlight penetration. Regular pruning fosters robust growth and improves the plant's aesthetic and structural integrity.
Propagation: Flowering dogwood is an ornamental tree prized for its vibrant bracts and spring flowers. Successful propagation involves semi-hardwood cuttings from new growth, treated with rooting hormone. A warm, moist environment with a soilless mix and high humidity promotes root development.
Repotting: Repot flowering dogwood every 2-3 years in early spring using a slightly larger pot with good drainage. Keep the soil moist and provide partial shade post-repotting to help delicate roots recover, ensuring continued healthy blooms in your garden.
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