17+ Different Types Of Dogwood Trees
Dogwoods, belonging to the Cornus genus, are a type of flowering shrub that can be enjoyed year-round. Their unique characteristics make them a popular choice for landscaping. With flowers blooming in spring and colorful berries appearing during the same season, some hybrid varieties even display vibrant stems in winter. Before incorporating dogwood trees into your landscape, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the different types available.
This article aims to provide an overview of the various species, helping you make an informed decision for your outdoor space.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the characteristics and features of 17 different types of dogwood trees, including Canadian bunchberry, common dogwood, Cornelian cherry, flowering dogwood, kousa dogwood, gray dogwood, mountain dogwood, pagoda dogwood, red twig dogwood, rough leaf dogwood, stiff dogwood, Swedish cornel, yellow twig dogwood, giant dogwood, Siberian dogwood, silky dogwood, and Himalayan dogwood.
This in-depth look will give you a solid understanding of the unique qualities and uses of each species.
Dogwood facts
Dogwood trees possess a rich history and cultural significance, with fascinating facts that set them apart from other tree species. For instance, they belong to the Cornaceae family, which comprises 60 species ranging from deciduous shrubs to perennial sub-shrubs and woody evergreens. Dogwoods are also celebrated as state trees in several American states, including North Carolina, Missouri, and Virginia.
In Native American traditions, the blooming of dogwood flowers marks the beginning of corn planting, while Christian folklore associates dogwood with Christ’s crucifixion, citing it as the wood used for the cross. Beyond their symbolic importance, dogwoods have practical applications in various industries, including wheel construction, machine bearings, shuttles, and golf clubs. The plant’s roots are also a valuable source of natural dyes, yielding red, yellow, and black hues when boiled.
Furthermore, dogwood trees support bird wildlife, providing sustenance for at least 36 species that thrive on their fruits. Interestingly, the ‘flowers’ on dogwood trees are not truly flowers but rather modified bracts. In earlier times, dogwood bark was used to make a tea believed to treat yellow fever and malaria. In Victorian era etiquette, presenting a dogwood bouquet signified romantic interest, while returning it indicated rejection.
With an average lifespan of 80 years, dogwoods have earned their place as a beloved and enduring tree species.
Why is it called dogwood?
One of the most intriguing aspects of the dogwood shrub is its diverse etymology. According to historical accounts, the name ‘dogwood’ may stem from the Celtic word for a pointed wooden tool called the ‘dagge’. This ancient term held significant value in Celtic culture, where it was one of the few woods prized for crafting tools. Another theory suggests that the name originates from the bark’s use in treating canine mange, a common affliction affecting dogs throughout history.
A third possible explanation points to the colonial era, during which many dogs perished after consuming fallen berries of the dogwood tree.
Dogwood bark
The distinctive bark of dogwoods features a scaly, exfoliating texture, with tan and gray hues that evoke the rough, cracked surface of an alligator’s hide. This unique characteristic makes them a popular choice for winter landscaping, offering a visually striking addition to any outdoor space.
Dogwood leaves
A closer inspection of the signature dogwood leaf reveals its distinctive features. Its ovate shape is characterized by an elongation along the length, with visible veins that give it a natural, organic appearance. The edges of the leaf are smooth to the touch and often display a high-gloss sheen. Furthermore, the leaves themselves exhibit a unique arrangement, where they grow in opposite directions yet still follow an alternating pattern.
Dogwood flowers
Flowering dogwood shrubs or trees are often characterized by their showy blooms, which depart from the typical white hue of dogwood flowers. Instead, they boast a vibrant array of colors, including pink, yellow, and yellow-green hues. What’s more, these flowers are always accompanied by delicate white bracts that add an extra layer of elegance to the display. This colorful spectacle typically takes place in clusters between mid-March and May.
Dogwood berries
The characteristics of dogwood fruits are diverse, encompassing varying shapes, sizes, and hues. While the majority of berries display a vibrant red color, others may exhibit darker tones such as blue, purple, black, white, or even gray. Interestingly, some dogwood berries are safe for human consumption, although their appeal is largely limited to birds. Conversely, many are inedible or even toxic, posing a risk to pets and other animals.
Dogwood tree identification
For effective dogwood tree identification, focus on two distinctive characteristics: the unique alligator-like texture of its bark, as well as the shape and appearance of its leaves. Specifically, look for oval-shaped, elongated leaves with prominent veins that take on a vibrant purple-red hue during the fall season. Additionally, inspect the tree’s berries during the summer months to further confirm your identification.
17 Types of dogwood trees
The diverse world of dogwood trees boasts no less than 17 distinct species, each with its unique characteristics. In the following discussion, we will delve into the various types of dogwood trees, providing valuable insights that can aid in selecting the perfect specimen for specific areas within your landscape design.
Canadian bunchberry (Cornus canadensis)
The Dwarf Cornel, also known as one of the only two sub-shrubs within the dogwood tree family, exhibits a unique characteristic – it dies back to the ground during winter, only to regrow from its buds come spring. Although it doesn’t grow particularly tall, reaching only 4-6 inches in height, it spreads rapidly through rhizomes.
The leaves of this sub-shrub are distinguished by their deep green color and high glossiness, which take on a reddish hue during the summer months before transitioning to purple in the fall. Additionally, the Dwarf Cornel boasts subtle leaf veins and produces white flowers that eventually ripen into edible red berries during the summer.
Common dogwood (Cornus sanguinea)
The common dogwood, also known as the blood twig due to its reddish hue, is a unique tree that thrives in various environments. Its multiple stems gradually turn from their vibrant red color to a dull green as they mature. One of the most distinctive features of this species is its elliptical or oval-shaped leaves, which are accompanied by cream-colored flowers and black-blue fruits. While the fruit is technically edible, many people find it unpalatable.
The leaves themselves showcase faint veins and, as a fast-growing species, require regular pruning to maintain their health. Dogwoods can grow up to 15 feet in height, although dwarf varieties are also available.
Cornelian cherry (Cornus mas)
The European cornel, also known as dogwood, is a notable bloomer that thrives in early spring. It can grow up to 15ft tall, with its first signs of life appearing in the form of yellow flowers. As summer approaches, the plants produce oval-shaped leaves with prominent veins, reaching lengths of up to 4 inches. In mid-summer, the trees are adorned with edible red berries that fall to the ground.
These berries are highly versatile and can be transformed into a variety of culinary delights, including sauces, pickles, jams, and even liquors. It’s essential to wait until the berries have fallen to the ground before harvesting them, as this ensures optimal flavor and quality.
Flowering dogwood (Cornus florida)
This beloved deciduous shrub is cherished for its exceptional ornamental appeal. As the state tree of North Carolina, it showcases a stunning spring display featuring an array of white, pink, and red flowers, which are beautifully complemented by its unique branching habit and flat crown shape. In autumn, its dark green leaves with prominent veins take on a purplish hue.
Notably, this shrub grows between 15-20 feet tall, though regular pruning is necessary to prevent dogwood anthracnose, a common issue that affects its health.
Kousa dogwood (Cornus kousa)
The Japanese/Chinese/Korean dogwood, a compact, multi-stem shrub, boasts a plethora of names. In the spring, it bursts forth with clusters of yellow-green flowers, which are later replaced by pinkish-red berries in the summer. The oval-shaped leaves, adorned with veins, take on a purplish hue during the fall season. Its most striking feature, however, is its gray-tan bark, which features an exfoliating, mottled pattern, preparing for the winter months ahead.
Native to Eastern Asia, this shrub reaches a modest height of 8ft.
Gray dogwood (Cornus racemosa)
The swamp dogwood’s unique growth pattern is characterized by its ability to sprout from rhizomes, allowing it to thrive in dense thickets along swampy areas and riverbanks. This adaptable species produces showy white flowers that gradually mature into grayish-white berries. While the berries serve as a vital food source for birds, they are unfortunately toxic to humans. In terms of foliage, the swamp dogwood boasts striking lancing leaves adorned with prominent veins.
As the seasons change, these leaves transform into a deep purple-red hue in the fall. Furthermore, the tree’s bark undergoes an annual peeling process as it matures, revealing a warm orange-brown color before eventually settling into a more subdued gray at full maturity.
Mountain dogwood (Cornus nuttallii)
The Pacific dogwood, a medium-sized species, boasts an impressive capacity for thriving in shaded and drought-prone environments. One of its most striking features is the clusters of large white flowers that transition into vibrant shades of yellow, red, or orange during the fall season. The tree’s bright red to orange fruits add another layer of visual appeal. When properly maintained, this dogwood can reach impressive heights of up to 75 feet.
Its native range includes Western North America, with a particular fondness for California, Oregon, Idaho, Washington, and British Columbia.
Pagoda dogwood (Cornus alternifolia)
The Cornus controversa, also known as the Pagoda Dogwood, is easily recognizable due to the unique alternating pattern of its leaves. This versatile tree can thrive in multiple stem configurations or be pruned to promote a single-stem growth. Its flat crown and layered branches give it a distinct ‘pagoda’ appearance. Reaching heights of 15-25 feet, this species boasts stunning variegated foliage, with the ‘Argentea’ variant being particularly striking.
Red twig dogwood (Cornus sericea)
The stunning red osier dogwood is a medium-sized shrub that boasts an impressive display of seasonal color changes. Its slender green stems transform into vibrant shades of red during the summer and fall, before taking on a more brilliant hue in the winter months. As the seasons transition, its leaves also undergo a remarkable transformation – from a lush green to a fiery red-orange in the summer and a rich purple come autumn.
The dogwood’s crowning glory is its delicate white blooms, which give way to small, white berries that are a prized treat for local bird populations. At maturity, this shrub can reach heights of up to 12 feet, making it an ideal choice for landscape design enthusiasts seeking a unique and eye-catching addition to their outdoor spaces.
Rough leaf dogwood (Cornus drummondii)
The Kousa Dogwood, distinguished by its coarse leaf hairs, excels in sunny environments where it forms clusters through sucker growth. This hardy dogwood variety boasts small white flowers and yellow-green berries that follow. Its foliage also features the characteristic oval shape with prominent veins, transitioning to a purplish-red hue during autumn. Notably, this native Eastern North America species reaches heights of 6-15 feet.
Stiff dogwood (Cornus foemina)
Sitting between being a large shrub and a small tree, this deciduous beauty boasts an array of characteristics that make it stand out. Its leaves are a stunning combination of glossy, drooping, oval, and veined, transforming into a vibrant red-purple hue during the fall season. As for its flowers, they bloom in clusters as small white blooms that surprisingly take on a burgundy tint in autumn, though their intoxicating aroma is anything but appealing.
Reaching heights of 15-25 feet, this specimen thrives in conditions ranging from full sunlight to partial shade.
Swedish cornel (Cornus suecica)
The Cornus canadensis, also known as the Canadian Serviceberry, is the second of only two shrubs in the Dogwood family. These plants thrive in swampy and boggy environments, where they produce small, deeply purple flowers accompanied by white bracts. While they are sometimes used as ground cover, this species is best suited for mountainous or alpine landscapes due to its limited growth of just 8 inches.
Native to the Arctic regions, the Cornus canadensis is a unique and fascinating plant that plays an important role in these ecosystems.
Yellow twig dogwood (Cornus sericea ‘Flaviramea’)
Ornamental shrubs are often overlooked for their beauty, but one type stands out for its striking appearance: the shrub with decorative yellow stems. These plants add visual interest to backyards when they’re not in bloom. In spring, they produce tiny white flowers that quickly give way to inedible yellow-green fruits.
As the seasons change, the shrub’s color transforms as well – it turns a bright green during summer and then shifts to a vibrant yellow in fall before settling into its winter hue.
Giant dogwood (Cornus controversa)
In the Himalayas, a majestic tree stands tall, known to locals as the ‘wedding cake tree’. This native Asian species can grow up to 50 feet in height, boasting striking features like dark green, veined leaves that are oval-shaped. The tree’s tiny white flowers add a touch of elegance, while its black fruits may not be edible, but they’re certainly an eye-catcher. As the seasons change, the leaves transform into a deep purplish red hue.
Today, you can spot these magnificent trees in large estates and parks across the region.
Siberian dogwood (Cornus alba)
The Cercis canadensis var. alba, also known as the White Dogwood, is a type of surculose shrub that can grow up to small tree-like proportions. One of its most notable features is the vibrant red coloration of its stems during the fall and winter seasons, making it a popular choice for decorative landscaping. In contrast, the foliage takes on a soft whitish-green hue with white-tinged edges during the spring and summer months.
The shrub also produces small, flat white flowers that are eventually followed by either blue or white fruits in the summer.
Silky dogwood (Cornus amomum)
The kinnikinnik shrub is also known as red willow or squawbush. This deciduous plant can grow up to 16 feet tall and is characterized by its distinctive dogwood foliage, featuring oval-shaped leaves with veins that are a bright green color in the spring and transform into a deep purple-red hue during the fall season. In addition to its attractive foliage, kinnikinnik also boasts small, white flowers that appear in the summer, accompanied by blueberry-like fruits.
Himalayan dogwood (Cornus capitata)
The Himalayan strawberry tree, also known as Bentham’s cornel or evergreen dogwood, is a native plant of lower woodlands in Asia and Australia. This tree is characterized by its impressive height of 40ft, with slender, gray-green leaves that resemble lances. In the spring, it produces clusters of tiny white flowers, while summer brings red fruits to the scene. With its unique features and striking appearance, this tree is sure to be a standout in any landscape.
Dogwood tree care guide
To cultivate a thriving dogwood tree, heed these essential care tips. Timing is crucial when planting, as spring’s moisture-rich soil aids root growth. Ensure your dogwood receives a balance of full sunlight and partial shade. Watering is another critical aspect – young trees require frequent watering, while established roots can tolerate shorter intervals during dry spells. Soil-wise, dogwoods thrive in moist, well-drained conditions with acidic pH.
Fertilization is not necessary, as over-fertilizing can harm young trees. Instead, focus on organic mulching using straw, compost, or coffee grounds to promote growth. Pruning is mostly unnecessary, except for removing dead leaves and branches. Summer pruning prevents messy sap bleeding. Finally, be aware of common pests and diseases like dogwood anthracnose, powdery mildew, dogwood borer, scales, and deer damage to well-cared-for trees.
FAQs
Beyond exploring the various species of dogwoods, it’s equally important to familiarize yourself with some fundamental FAQs. These nuggets of information will prove particularly valuable as you embark on the journey of nurturing and caring for your own dogwood within your home’s landscape.
Flowering dogwood vs kousa dogwood
While flowering dogwood and kousa dogwood share many similarities, there are a few key differences that set them apart. One notable distinction is the timing of their blooms: flowering dogwoods tend to bloom two to three weeks earlier than kousa dogwoods, making them a more suitable choice for spring landscapes, while kousa dogwoods thrive in fall and winter landscapes.
Additionally, when it comes to invasiveness, kousa dogwoods are generally more aggressive during bloom time, leaving behind a mess that may require additional maintenance. In contrast, flowering dogwoods are less invasive and easier to care for. Despite these differences, both varieties share similar care requirements and comparable heights, with the exception of flowering dogwoods’ wider range of colors, which can include hues beyond white, such as Gold Star, Temple Jewel, and Wolf Eyes.
Are there hybrid dogwood trees?
Hybrid dogwoods, such as the flowering dogwood and the kousa dogwood, offer a unique combination of characteristics. Within this category, you’ll find several cultivars and variegations that showcase their diversity, including Stardust, Celestial, and Stellar Pink – all of which share the distinct features of these hybrid trees.
Do dogwoods attract bees?
Dogwoods don’t just attract birds – they’re a haven for pollinators and other animals. Bees, butterflies like the spring azure, and other insects are drawn to the steady supply of nectar provided by dogwood flowers. But that’s not all – squirrels also rely on dogwoods, feeding on their buds before they bloom. In fact, many mammals and birds thrive in the presence of dogwoods.
Some of these beneficiaries include bluebirds, American crows, woodpeckers, starlings, robins, juncos, grackles, beavers, skunks, wild turkeys, raccoons, chipmunks, and red foxes.
Are there considered wild dogwood species?
Both the red osier dogwood and the Pacific dogwood are the only two species of this type, with distinct differences in their geographical distribution. The red osier dogwood typically inhabits coastal areas, whereas the Pacific dogwood tends to thrive in highland regions, showcasing a unique adaptation to its environment.
What are the most beautiful flowering dogwoods?
For those captivated by the vibrant display of flowering dogwoods, exploring these notable species is a must. The list includes Barton, Sweetwater Red, Welchii, Cherokee Chief, Cherokee Princess, First Lady, Poinsett, Cloud 9, Wonderberry, and Red Beauty – each offering unique characteristics that are sure to impress.
How fast do dogwood trees grow?
Dogwoods exhibit a measured pace of growth, steadily increasing in height over time. While they may not sprout up overnight, their moderate rate allows them to reach impressive heights – up to 20 feet within the span of 25 years. The actual height achieved by dogwoods also depends on the environmental conditions they’re planted in.
For instance, those grown under full sunlight tend to top out at around 20 feet, whereas those cultivated in partial shade can grow significantly taller, reaching heights of over 40 feet.
What can I plant under a dogwood tree?
When creating a landscape featuring dogwood as the main attraction, it’s essential to surround it with complementary plants that thrive in similar conditions. The following list of companion plants is ideal for a spring-inspired landscape and can also be used for an all-season design.
Trees like red maples, arborvitae, pin oaks, and bald cypresses provide sturdy backdrops, while shrubs such as coral bells, viburnum, and creeping myrtle offer texture and interest.
For a pop of color, consider adding bearded iris, asters, or black-eyed Susans.
Groundcovers like lilyturf, weeping willows, and fountain grass add depth and movement to the landscape. Don’t forget to include some flowering perennials like sweet woodruff, bugleweed, and heath for a burst of color in the spring. For year-round interest, consider incorporating holly, juniper, or red oaks.
Can I keep the dogwood small?
When it comes to maintaining a compact shape for your dogwood trees, annual pruning is an effective way to achieve this. Specifically, prune all upright branches by one-third each year. However, if you’re not keen on regular pruning, consider opting for dwarf varieties like bunchberries or Canadian dwarf cornel instead.
Are dogwoods poisonous to dogs?
It was previously thought that dogwoods posed a threat to canine health, with some fatalities occurring in the colonial era when dogs consumed dogwood berries. However, this notion has been thoroughly debunked by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), which notes that no species of dogwood trees have ever been documented as toxic to dogs.
Do dogwoods grow well in Ohio?
In the state of Ohio, there are only two species of dogwood that flourish in its climate: flowering dogwoods and Kousa dogwoods. A notable difference between these two varieties is their blooming period. Flowering dogwoods typically produce an abundance of flowers from April to May, whereas Kousa dogwoods bloom slightly later, from May to June.
How far away from the house should you plant a dogwood tree?
When it comes to planting dogwood trees, it’s essential to consider their mature size and spacing requirements. For small or dwarf varieties, a general guideline is to plant them within 6 feet of your house and maintain a distance of at least 20 feet between each tree. If you’re working with medium to large-sized dogwoods, you’ll want to ensure they have enough room to grow. A minimum distance of 15 feet from the house is recommended, along with a spacing of at least 35 feet between each tree.
Conclusion
Dogwoods are a versatile group of plants that can be used to add visual interest and functionality to any landscape. With their unique foliage, stems, and small flowers, they offer a year-round display that can enhance the beauty of your yard. One of the best things about dogwoods is how easy they are to care for, making them an excellent choice for busy homeowners or those new to gardening.
When selecting a dogwood for your landscape, it’s important to consider which type will work best for you and your specific needs. Whether you’re looking for a showy focal point or a low-maintenance addition to your yard, there’s a dogwood out there that can meet your requirements.
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