Pagoda Dogwood

Do you constantly stare at your yard and think, “There’s just something missing; that certain je ne sais quoi.” Well, that missing element may just be Pagoda Dogwood, an American tree featuring broad showy foliage that morphs from emerald green in the spring to a dramatic ombré mélange of chartreuse, pinkish copper, and purple in the fall. Delicate, creamy-white florets followed by fruit that matures from crimson to black complement this ornamental tree’s leaves from May to June. Bred by American Beauties Native Plants and cold hardy in zones 4-8, this small tree, otherwise known as Cornus alternifolia, varies in height and width from 8-25 feet. An understory tree, Pagoda Dogwood thrives in semi-wooded landscapes and containers placed in shade provided by other trees and structures.

Native to North America, Pagoda Dogwood’s faint perfume will be the talk of the town amongst neighbors and local pollinators such as butterflies, bees, moths, and birds. A gaggle of songbirds craving this tree’s fruit will soon follow the pollinator gang. Slow growing, this deciduous tree grows upright and is deer resistant.

Pagoda Dogwood Care

While tolerating full sun, Pagoda Dogwood, an understory tree, thrives in partial shade, so choose a spot that gets ample shade from other taller trees or structures. If planting in an area where strong winds are common, staking this ornamental during the first year will give it extra support. To decrease water loss and improve the quality of soil, apply 2 to 4 inches of compost around the base of the tree.

A low-maintenance plant, Pagoda Dogwood does not require frequent pruning. Prune during this tree’s dormant phase, or late winter to early spring to encourage future growth and discourage disease. At this time, remove any diseased, damaged, or dead limbs. To improve air circulation, also remove any overly crowded limbs. To encourage the production of more flowers, you can lightly prune a second time in June.

Pagoda Dogwood Spacing

Pagoda Dogwood enhances woodland gardens and other shady landscapes. When grouped, space these lovely ornamental trees anywhere from 15 to 25 feet apart. Other shade-loving perennials such as astilbe, hydrangea, and hosta serve this tree as fine companion plants.