Alternate-Leaved Dogwood – Cornus alternifolia
(Cornaceae)
Alternate-leaved dogwood is a deciduous tree growing to 20 to 25 feet in height and 10 to 15 feet in width. Stems and leaves are borne alternately along the branches, a characteristic not shared with other dogwoods. This species is also called Pagoda Dogwood because it develops an ordered and layered horizontal branching pattern. Tight clusters of small, creamy-white, fragrant flowers appear with the leaves at the tips of last season’s branches in spring. The developing fruits phase from green to pink to dark blue and are held upright on bright red peduncles.
Alternate-leaved dogwood grows best in well-drained, humusy, acidic soils in light shade. This is an excellent specimen tree for a woodland garden or cool, shady mixed border. This species provides four-season interest through flowering, fruiting, autumn color, and architecture and provides a valuable food source for migratory birds.
Alternate-leaved dogwood is native to rich woodland and swamps throughout the eastern United States and eastern Canada.
Native Plant Spotlight
Eastern Red Cedar
Winterberry
Sweetfern
Northern Catalpa
Fothergilla
Eastern Prickly Pear
Franklinia
Poison Ivy
Twin Leaf
Mayapple
Marsh Marigold
Alternate-leaved Dogwood
Beach Pea
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