Cornus florida

Flowering Dogwood

Small, low branched tree with horizontal branching. Young stems are reddish purple. Mature bark is grey with "alligator" texture. Tiny flowers with large white bracts open before leaves emerge. Glossy red fruits in autumn are attractive to birds. Prefers acidic, moist organic soil, partial shade, will tolerate full sun. Native to RI. 15-20' x 15-20'.

Note - Cornus florida has been subject anthracnose infections in recent years. Some botanists feel that existing stands may have some natural resistance to the disease.

Images courtesy of Dr. Mark Brand, UCONN

Images courtesy of Dr. Mark Brand, UCONN