Cornus alternifolia
Alternateleaf Dogwood
Alternateleaf Dogwood is a small, deciduous tree, sometimes planted as a shrub. Its horizontal branches give it a layered appearance. Clusters of...
Description:
Alternateleaf Dogwood is a small, deciduous tree, sometimes planted as a shrub. Its horizontal branches give it a layered appearance. Clusters of fragrant, white flowers bloom May-June, followed by blue-black fruits, which ripen in late summer. The fruits provide food for birds and other wildlife. The leaves turn red-purple in the fall. Alternateleaf Dogwood is a host plant for butterfly and moth larvae (caterpillars), including Spring Azure (Celastrina “ladon”). Water during periods of drought and mulch to keep the roots moist. Use as a specimen tree for small yards, or plant in masses in shrub borders or woodland gardens.
Plant Details:
Other Common Names: Pagoda Dogwood
Plant Type: Tree
New Jersey Native: Yes
Bloom Times: Late Spring to Early Summer
Bloom Colors: White
Deer Resistance: None
Attracts Pollinators and Wildlife: Bees and Other Pollinators, Butterflies, Birds
Salt Tolerance: Low to None
Hardiness Zone: 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b
Physiographic Region: All Regions in NJ
Soil Characteristics
Soil Type: Loam, Organic, Sandy
Soil Moisture: Dry
Soil pH: Slightly Acidic, Neutral
Light Needs of Plant
Optimal Light: Partial Shade
Light Range: Full Sun, Partial Shade, Shade
Water Needs of Plant
Soil Moisture: Dry
Drought Tolerance: Low
Size and Growth Rate
Height: 15 - 25 ft
Spread: 10 - 15 ft
Growth Rate: Medium