Although it needs no introduction, Cornus florida is one of THE signature North American native trees that also turns out to be highly valued as a landscape ornamental. Known commonly as our Flowering Dogwood, this reliable and nomadic tree can be found from Massachusetts to Florida, and as far southwest as Texas and upper regions of Mexico, often preferring moist understory woodland conditions with part shade or filtered light and well-draining, nutrient rich soils. Cornus florida can also be found in full sun sites that retain a bit more moisture, as well as more shaded sites beneath existing canopies. Don't count it out for tricky urban sites, though - it's also capable of handling some compacted soils, and is known to be wildly heat tolerant if offered enough shade. Its graceful horizontal branching habit distinguishes this small tree from other small native woodland trees and large shrubs. Large white bracts emerge in clusters of four resembling what most people would consider flowers, often early in the spring from the end of March to early May before other trees and flowering perennials have had a chance to blossom. The showy white floral structures appear before the rich green leaves that persist throughout summer before becoming emblazoned in scarlet autumn hues. Bright red fruits ripen just in time for fall foraging and pop ceremoniously against the dark red autumn foliage. The shiny, elliptical red fruits are relished by songbirds and considered a critical part of their late season diet. Flowering Dogwood sustains not only bird populations, but a wide net of insects as well. The larval host and nectar source of the Azure butterfly, Cornus florida remains a critical plant species throughout its life cycle, from conception to emergence from its cocoon. Bees in the Andrena genus also have Cornus florida to thank as a reliable and widespread source of support. As its natural range suggests, Cornus florida is best suited for woodland edges, filtered light conditions, and soils with consistent organic matter and drainage. Flowering Dogwood remains one of the most important small native trees for ecological landscapes, residential gardens, and commercial settings alike.

• Category: Woody Ornamentals
• Hardiness Zone: 5
• Height: 25 Feet
• Spread: 25 Feet
• Bloom Color: Pink, White