flowering dogwood
Cornus florida f. rubra
Overview
The flowering dogwood (Cornus florida f. rubra) is a stunning species of shrub or small tree known for its gorgeous bright red flowers and foliage. It is a popular choice for landscaped yards and gardens, as it can reach up to 30 feet in height, with year-round interest in its fragrant flowers, bright red berries, and foliage. It is particularly striking during the fall when its leaves develop a deep red hue. With a slow to medium growth rate and moderate maintenance requirements, it is an ideal plant for gardeners of all levels. Its hardiness to both hot and cold climates provides yet another reason to fall for this amazing species.
Care Guide
Watering
Watering flowering dogwood (Cornus florida f. rubra) should be done at least once a week, and more often during extremely hot weather. When watering, soak the soil thoroughly so the water reaches the roots. If water pools in the saucer beneath the pot, empty it immediately as the plant is susceptible to root rot. After a few weeks, the plant should become acclimated to its new environment, and you can reduce the frequency of watering. During winter months when the tree is dormant, reduce the amount of water to once a month or less.
Light
Flowering dogwood (Cornus florida f. rubra) preferslight to partial shade and tolerates full sun in climates with cooler summers. Ideally, this plant species should receive at least 3-4 hours of direct sunlight daily or 4-5 hours of indirect sunlight. Of important note, however, are the hours of direct sunlight the plant is exposed to on a daily basis, not simply the total amount of sunlight or the amount of diffused light throughout the day. In the mornings, the sun is more powerful and direct; in contrast, in the late afternoon and early evening, the sun is less direct and more diffuse. Thus, it is recommended that this plant species receive more direct sunlight in the mornings and less in the afternoon.
Soil
Acidic, Well-drained
Temperature
Hardiness zone 6–6.
Pruning
Flowering dogwood (Cornus florida f. rubra) should be pruned in either early spring before flowering or in late winter when the plant is dormant. Pruning should be minimal, as too much can remove potential flower buds and ruin the shape of the tree. Start by removing any dead or broken branches, then selectively prune to maintain form, removing any crossing branches that reduce air circulation. Prune any stems that are rubbing against 1 another as well. Remove any suckers rising from the base of the trunk and thin out branches that are too close together by cutting back to the main branch. If you’d like to reduce the size of the tree, make sure to cut back only a small amount at a time, otherwise you’ll compromise the overall structure of the tree.
Propagation
Grafting Propagation, Cutting, Layering Propagation, Air Layering Propagation, Seed Propagation
Diseases & Pests
Common pests: Anthracnose, Canker, sap rot, Diptera - true flies, Fungal leaf spot, Mildew, Nematodes, Root rot, Scale insects, Stem borer insects, Thrips, Deer resistant .
Related plants
Other plants you might like if you grow flowering dogwood.
