PINK FLOWERING DOGWOOD

Plant Name: Pink Flowering Dogwood
Scientific Name: Cornus florida — Pink Flowering Dogwood, Eastern Flowering Dogwood
Mature Height: 15–25 ft
Mature Spread: 15–25 ft
Growth Rate: Moderate (1–2 ft/year)
Sun: Full sun to partial shade
Water: Moderate; ~10–15 gal/week while establishing, then ~15–20 gal every 7–10 days once established; increase during extreme heat
Foliage: Medium to dark green, oval, deciduous
Fall Color: Red to scarlet-purple
Flower Color: Pink to rosy-pink
Bloom Time: Early to mid-spring
Fruit: Bright red, oval drupes in late summer–fall; attractive to birds
Hardiness Zones: 5–9 (−20°F to 20°F)
Features: Excellent ornamental tree; showy spring display; attractive layered branching; brilliant fall color; red winter fruit; valuable wildlife tree
Additional Facts: The showy pink structures are actually modified leaves called bracts, surrounding the small true flowers. Flowering dogwood prefers moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil and generally performs best with afternoon shade in hot climates.