Exposure
Sun, partial shade
Flowering Dogwood – Cornus florida
(deciduous ornamental shrub or small tree with spectacular spring blossom)
Origin and characteristics
Native to the forests and clearings of North America, Cornus florida belongs to the Cornaceae family, like Cornus kousa and Cornus mas.
It is one of the most beautiful flowering dogwoods, offering a full display of interest from spring to winter.
Description and key features
- Mature height: 4 to 6 metres
- Spread: 3 to 5 metres
- Habit: Spreading, rounded and layered with age
- Foliage: Deciduous, mid-green turning vibrant reddish-purple in autumn
- Flowering: May to June
- Flowers: Small greenish central flowers surrounded by 4 large white bracts resembling petals (4 to 6 cm)
- Fruits: Small decorative red berries, attractive to birds (not edible for humans)
- Hardiness: Excellent (down to -25 °C)
Light and soil requirements
- Exposure: Full sun (not scorching) or partial shade
- Soil: Acidic to neutral, fertile, cool and well-drained
- Tolerances: Dislikes chalky soils and prolonged drought
Planting
- Best time: Autumn (ideal) or spring
- Spacing: Allow 3 to 4 metres for harmonious development
- Soil preparation: Mix ericaceous compost with garden soil for a light, acidic substrate
Watering
- After planting: Water regularly during the first two years
- Later on: Water in summer to keep the soil cool; mulching is recommended
Pruning
- When?: Rarely necessary; prune after flowering if needed
- How?:
- Remove dead or poorly positioned branches
- Respect the plant’s natural, tiered, elegant shape
Propagation
- From seed: Possible but slow
- By grafting: Horticultural method to preserve varietal traits
Garden use
The Flowering Dogwood is perfect for:
- Specimen planting to highlight its stunning spring display
- Shrub borders with companions such as spiraea
- Autumn scenes thanks to its flamboyant foliage
Disease protection
- Fairly disease-resistant in well-drained soil
- Watch for:
- Anthracnose (fungal disease) in very humid climates
- Ensure good airflow around the plant
Tips for healthy growth
- Plant in light, acidic, and cool soil
- Apply organic mulch to retain moisture
- Water regularly without overdoing it, especially in summer
- Avoid strong root competition (lawn or vigorous plants nearby)
Cornus florida, with its springtime white bracts, brilliant autumn foliage and bird-friendly fruits, is a true garden treasure. Combined with rhododendrons or other acid-loving plants, it creates a rare and evolving display throughout the seasons.
Features
-
Common name :
Flowering Dogwood
-
Family :
Cornaceae
-
Category :
shrub
-
Spread :
3 m
-
Foliage :
deciduous
-
Color of flowers :
white
-
Use :
hedge - isolated - shrubbery
-
Soil :
all
-
Habit :
conical
-
Earth to use :
50% universal potting soil and 50% heath earth
-
Enemies :
nothing to report
-
Possible diseases :
anthracnose
As soon as you place your order your plants are selected
Each order is processed individually.
Plants are packed, staked and labeled.
Packaging is carefully implemented to avoid any problems.
Packages are ready to be shipped.
