Cornus florida

Synonym(s)
Common Name
Flowering dogwood
Plant Form
Medium Trees
Duration
Perennial
Max Height (ft)
25.0
Growth Rate
Medium
Region
Coastal
Piedmont
Mountain
Hardiness Zone
5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Photographer: crowMoon
Licensed under: CC BY-NC 4.0
Original photo: Original photo

Photographer: Joe Steiner
Licensed under: CC BY-NC 4.0
Original photo: Original photo

Photographer: Joe Steiner
Licensed under: CC BY-NC 4.0
Original photo: Original photo

Additional Info

Virginia's state tree.  More resistant to dogwood anthracnose fungus if planted in open areas, but if planted in full sun, it will need to be watered in extended dry spells. Slow growing after transplant, medium grower later.

Note: Needs good drainage. Tolerates light shade. Frequent Disease Problems

Habitat: woodland edges and openings; hardwood and mixed coniferous forests, mountain slopes, and coves

Wildlife value: Its fruits are eaten by songbirds, ruffed grouse, quail, wild turkey, chipmunks, black bear, foxes, white-tailed deer, skunks, and squirrels. Host plant for the spring Azure (Celastrina ladon) butterfly/larvae. Plant NOVA Natives lists this species as particularly popular with the non-native honeybees

Flower Color
Cream/White
Gold/Yellow
Green
Pink
Flower Prominence
Conspicuous
Bloom Time
Spring
Early Summer
Bloom Month
March
April
May
Light Requirements
Full sun
Partial sun
Moisture Requirements
Wet
Moist
Dry
Soil Texture
Clay
Loamy
Sandy
Low Maintenance
Yes
Good Choice for Public Spaces
Yes
Deer Resitant
Yes
Seed or Fruit eaten by wildlife?
Yes
Pollinators
Bees
Butterfiles
Top 30 for Butterfly and Moth Caterpillars?
Yes
Number of Lepidotera Species Genus Supports
98
Top 30 for Pollen Specialist Bees?
Yes
Number of Pollen Specialist Bees that Rely on this Genus
4
Tolerates
Good Substitute For
Beloved Brook's Ruckersville Nursery Inventory

Nursery is open by appointment only. Email them to set up a time. This plant list if from the begging of the 2025 season and may be outdated. If there is something specific that you’re looking for, they recommend you confirm that they have it when you schedule an appointment

Pots Available Plugs Available Pot size:
Yes

Gallon

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Bona Terra Nursery

Small family-run native plant nursery with a focus on the local genetics necessary to restore diversity in the Chesapeake eco-region. Offers free remote design service for small gardens up to 400 square feet. Orders are placed via email and items can be picked up at their NW DC office or delivered for a fee. This plant list is from the beginning of the 2025 season and may be out-of-date

Pots Available Pot Size Notes Add to Wishlist
0 3 Gallon

In production, Local Ecotype coming soon!

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Carries Seeds (may not be available)