photo of Cornus alternifolia

Cornus alternifolia

Alternateleaf Dogwood

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Alternateleaf Dogwood is a small, deciduous tree, sometimes planted as a shrub. Its horizontal branches give it a layered appearance. Clusters of...

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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