Common Flowering Dogwood

With its spring flowers and autumnal color, the Common White Flowering Dogwood provides a long period of interest. Botanically known as Cornus florida, this deciduous tree develops stunning white blooms in April to May before its purple foliage and red fruits appear in the fall. Growing to only 18 to 20 feet tall, this ornamental tree is suitable for many gardens and is a great source of food for the birds come fall. Sometimes regarded as one of the best small flowering trees, the Common White Flowering Dogwood has a slightly rounded canopy. This tree makes a great choice for sheltered rural landscapes as it is resistant to any hungry deer that may be lurking. Suitable for growing in zones 5 to 8, this Flowering Dogwood is one of the best for growing as a specimen tree or planting at the back of a border to provide some light shade. It is native to Eastern North America and low maintenance to grow. Common White Flowering Dogwood Care Even though this White Flowering Dogwood tends to grow to no more than 20 feet tall, care should be taken when planting this tree to make sure that it will not damage any overhead lines or structural overhangs in the future. It can tolerate full sun but is known to be happier in partial shade. It prefers a neutral to acidic, fertile soil kept moist, but well drained. Being slow to establish, regular watering for the first few years is essential and then during dry spells. When grown in fertile soil, feeding is not generally necessary. Mulching annually around the root zone will help reduce moisture loss. Dogwood trees rarely require pruning. However, you can prune the Common White Flowering Dogwood in winter when it is dormant to remove any dead, diseased or rubbing branches. Common White Flowering Dogwood Spacing When fully grown, this Flowering Dogwood can grow to 18 to 20 feet tall and wide. When planting as a specimen tree, provide 20 feet of space so it can be appreciated in all its beauty.