Pagoda Dogwood (Cornus alternifolia)
Estimated Height at Pickup: 2-3’, 1 gal
A dogwood often planted as an ornamental- even young plants bloom well, and mature plants bloom densely and have a natural “shelving” form. Valuable as an insect host, late summer/ fall berries feed small mammals and birds, and white spring flowers feed a variety of pollinators. Easily grown in average conditions, and more resistant to powdery mildew than the better known flowering dogwood.
Pollination: 2+ individuals needed.
Light: Full Sun, Part Sun/Shade
Soil Moisture: Wet Mesic, Mesic
Soil Type: Adaptable
Height: 15’-25’
Width: 20’-35’
Bloom Color: White
Bloom Time: May-Jun
Fruit: Dark blue/purple drupes ripen in fall.
Fall Color: Red
Root Type: Branching
Notable Wildlife Interactions: Flowers attract bees, wasps, flies, and butterflies. Hosts many insects including the spring azure butterfly, the cecropia and unicorn caterpillar moths, and some beetles and smaller insects. Berries are eaten by small mammals and many birds, including vireos, tanagers, and thrushes. Commonly browsed by deer and rabbits.
Notes: Easily differentiated from other dogwoods by leaves that are arranged alternately down the branches, instead of opposite each other.