Cornus Florida, Flowering Dogwood
Cornus florida, also known as the flowering dogwood, is a small deciduous tree or shrub native to the eastern United States. It is known for its showy spring flowers and vibrant fall foliage.
In terms of growth habit, the flowering dogwood typically grows around 20-30 feet (6-9 m) tall and 20-30 feet (6-9 m) wide. It has a rounded shape with a spreading canopy.
The foliage of the flowering dogwood is deciduous and arranged alternately on the branches. The leaves are oval and have a glossy green color. In fall, the leaves turn a brilliant red or purple color. They can reach up to 4 inches (10 cm) in length.
The flowers of the flowering dogwood are the main attraction of this plant. They are small but showy and appear in clusters before the leaves emerge in early spring. The flowers are typically pink or white, but cultivars with red flowers are also available. The fruits are small, red, and berry-like and appear in the fall.
The native range of the flowering dogwood is the eastern United States, from Maine to Florida and as far west as Texas. It can grow wild in various habitats, including forest understories, streams and rivers, and rocky uplands.
The flowering dogwood is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 5-9, which means it can survive in temperatures as low as -20°F (-29°C).
The flowering dogwood is a popular landscape plant due to its showy spring flowers, vibrant fall foliage, and year-round interest. It is often used as an accent plant, in groupings, or as a specimen plant. It is also a popular choice for residential gardens and parks.
The flowering dogwood has good disease resistance but can be susceptible to dogwood anthracnose and powdery mildew, which can cause leaf spot and defoliation. Proper cultural care, such as maintaining good air circulation, can help prevent these diseases.
Cultivars of the flowering dogwood include 'Cherokee Chief,' with deep red flowers, 'Cloud 9' with large white flowers; and 'Appalachian Spring' with pink flowers. American horticulturists developed many cultivars, like the famous horticulturist Michael A. Dirr.
Other plants that are similar in characteristics, size, and habit to the flowering dogwood include:
The kousa dogwood (Cornus kousa).
The pacific dogwood (Cornus nuttallii).
The alternate-leaved dogwood (Cornus alternifolia).
References:
Michael A. Dirr, "Manual of Woody Landscape Plants: Their Identification, Ornamental Characteristics, Culture, Propagation and Uses" (University of Georgia Press, 1990)
J.C. Raulston and S.L. Kelly, "Cornus florida: The Flowering Dogwood" (North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service, 2002)
"Cornus florida" (USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, 2021)
"Cornus florida" (Missouri Botanical Garden, 2021)
"Cornus florida" (University of Connecticut Plant Database, 2021)