Cornus florida

 

• Native, Perennial 

• Woody, deciduous, spring flowering understory tree

• Native from SE Canada to eastern North American to eastern Mexico

• Blooms early spring before leaf-out, March-May

• Can be a tricky plant to grow in a landscape setting, commonly found growing in woodland margins

• Plant in well-drained soil that is high in organic matter and has a slightly acidic to neutral ph

• A 2 to 4 inch layer of mulch will help keep the roots cool and moist in hot summers

• Flowers are visited by butterflies and specialized bees

• Red fruits are a food source for songbirds and other wildlife in the winter months
  
  Zones 5a-9b