Flowering Dogwood
Cornus florida
Cornaceae · broadleaf deciduous tree · native
Last updated
You recognize Flowering Dogwood by its showy white (or pink) bracts appearing in spring before the leaves, creating the impression of delicate blossoms. This native understory tree reaches 15-25 feet with a graceful spreading form. The small red berries ripen in fall, and the leaves turn red-purple before dropping.
Flowering Dogwood performs best in partial shade with moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soils. Protect from hot afternoon sun and harsh winds. This tree requires consistent moisture during establishment. Prune minimally to develop natural form. Monitor for anthracnose and powdery mildew in humid conditions; improve air circulation and avoid overhead watering. This native provides multi-season interest.
Quick Facts
Phenological Calendar
As of April 3, 2026, Puget Sound stations range from 1070 to 1180.6 GDD₃₂. Flowering Dogwood has reached 'flower buds visible' (1061 GDD₃₂) and is approaching 'first bloom', predicted around Apr 4.
Regional Season Tracker
GDD₃₂ accumulation across 7 Puget Sound stations · as of Apr 3, 2026| Station | GDD₃₂ | Current Stage | Next | To Go |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Issaquah / East King | 1,181 | 'Leaf emergence' | — | — |
| Seattle / UW | 1,171 | 'Leaf emergence' | — | — |
| Kent / Auburn | 1,111 | 'Flower buds visible' | 'First bloom' | 17 |
| Olympia / Tumwater | 1,106 | 'Flower buds visible' | 'First bloom' | 22 |
| Bellingham / Whatcom | 1,101 | 'Flower buds visible' | 'First bloom' | 27 |
| Tacoma / Puyallup | 1,075 | 'Flower buds visible' | 'First bloom' | 53 |
| Sequim / Rain Shadow | 1,070 | 'Flower buds visible' | 'First bloom' | 58 |
| Stage | GDD32 | Typical Window |
|---|---|---|
| 'Bud break' BBCH '07' | 1010 | '' |
| ● 'Flower buds visible' BBCH '51' NOW | 1061 | '' |
| ○ 'First bloom' BBCH '61' NEXT | 1128 | '' est. Apr 4 (forecast) |
| 'Leaf emergence' BBCH '11' | 1128 | '' est. Apr 4 (forecast) |
GDD = Growing Degree Days (base 32°F, Jan 1 start). Why base 32? GDD₃₂ thresholds from USA National Phenology Network citizen science observations (WA+OR). Season tracker for Kent / Auburn as of Apr 3, 2026. Predicted dates use 16-day weather forecast through Apr 19, 2026, then climate normals.