Dogwood Trees Information
Dogwood trees thrive under the canopy of taller trees, but they also like full sun. Blooming in the spring around the same time as azalea, dogwood trees add a burst of color to the landscape. There are many varieties of dogwood, including the cornus florida and cornus kousa, which are popular in the eastern United States.
Characteristics
Considered short by tree standards, cornus florida and cornus kousa dogwood trees can reach a height of 20 to 30 feet. The bark of cornus florida resembles rectangles and its leaves turn a reddish-purple color in the fall, while the bark of cornus kousa typically flakes off and its leaves turn reddish-brown.
Blooms and Fruit
Even in bloom, cornus florida has a wispy appearance, with blooms that are small and can be pink, white or reddish in color and remain for two to three weeks. Cornus kousa looks full, with branches that droop from the weight of the blooms, which are four-pointed stars one to two inches across and white to light-greenish white in color.
The fruit of the dogwood appears in late August and into September and is a favorite of birds and squirrels. Cornus florida's fruit is less than 1/2-inch long and bright red, while the cornus kousa is light-red-colored balls 1/2- to 1-inch in diameter.
Growing Dogwood
Dogwood trees do best planted in the spring in partial shade, however, they can tolerate full sun if the soil is moist. Dig the hole three times as wide as the potted base of the tree and twice as deep to loosen up enough soil. Remove the tree from the pot and position it in the center of the hole. Lift the tree so the crown (where the trunk meets the roots) is slightly above ground and then fill the hole. Water it well and add mulch.
Using Dogwood in the Landscape
Planted along with azalea, you will have a spring color show that is unbeatable. Dogwood trees work well if you have a small yard or can be planted near much taller trees to add lower level interest. The dogwood's width, which is typically greater than its height, gives it great visual impact in the landscape.
Potential Problems
Flies are attracted to the sweet red berries that fall from the cornus kousa dogwood tree, which can be a nuisance. Also, trees that are growing in a wooded setting with limited air circulation and sunlight are susceptible to dogwood blight, which is a fungus that attacks the leaves. The tips of twigs can be killed by twig borers.
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