Flowering dogwood (Cornus florida)
Care, watering, light and tips for Flowering dogwood on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Cornaceae
- Difficulty: Demanding
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Flowering dogwood
Cornus florida, commonly known as White Dogwood, is a small to medium-sized deciduous tree renowned for its spectacular white bracts that surround tiny true flowers in spring. Its dark green foliage turns vibrant red and purple hues in autumn, and its red berries persist into winter, adding seasonal interest to the garden. It is ideal as a specimen tree, in woodland borders, or to add a focal point of beauty in residential landscapes.
Native range
Eastern North America, from southern Ontario (Canada) to northern Florida (United States) and west to eastern Texas and Kansas.
Care tips
It prefers locations with partial sun or light shade, especially in warm climates, to protect it from intense afternoon sun. It needs acidic, organically rich, well-drained, and consistently moist soil, avoiding waterlogging. Water regularly during dry periods, especially in its early years, and apply mulch to maintain soil moisture. A common mistake is planting it in alkaline or poorly drained soils, which can lead to chlorosis and diseases.
How to save a dying Flowering dogwood
- Warning signs
- Wilting/curling leaves, brown edges, no blooms, cankers on bark, defoliation.
- First aid
- Deep, consistent watering (avoid waterlogging), protect from harsh sun, prune diseased branches.
- What kills it
- Water stress (drought or overwatering), poor/compacted soil, excessive sun in warm climates.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if acted upon quickly. Needs acidic soil, good drainage, and sun protection.