Cornus florida, commonly known as Flowering Dogwood, is a beloved native understory tree prized for its four-season beauty and high ecological value. In early to mid-spring, it produces elegant white to pink flower bracts that create a striking display before the leaves emerge. This deciduous tree typically grows 15 to 30 feet tall with a graceful, horizontal branching habit. In fall, its foliage turns a vibrant red-purple, and clusters of bright red berries offer food for birds and other wildlife. A true native standout, Flowering Dogwood is ideal for woodland edges, native landscapes, and pollinator gardens.

Why choose Flowering Dogwood:

• Iconic native blooms: Showy spring flowers light up shady or semi-sunny gardens

• Four-season interest: Spring flowers, red fall foliage, and wildlife-attracting berries

• Supports biodiversity: Host plant for native butterflies and food source for birds

Cultivating tips:

• Sun exposure: Grows best in part shade; tolerates full sun with sufficient moisture

• Soil needs: Prefers rich, well-drained, acidic soils; benefits from mulch in dry conditions

• Maintenance: Low-maintenance; prune in late winter if needed to maintain form

Designs for your garden:

• Woodland edges: Naturally fits under taller trees or along forest margins

• Native gardens: Excellent centerpiece in pollinator and bird-supportive landscapes

• Mixed borders: Combines well with ferns, sedges, and shade-tolerant native shrubs

Ecological benefits:

• Native tree: Host plant for the Spring Azure butterfly and several moth species

• Bird-friendly: Berries feed robins, cardinals, and other songbirds

• Long-term value: Offers beauty and habitat year after year in native-focused designs