Dogwood Tree Information

Dogwood tree is by and large a deciduous woody tree of the genus, Cornus and family, Cornaceae. The genus Cornus however, includes about 30 to 50 species of plants, out of which some are shrubs. Some dogwood species are herbaceous perennial plants, while others are evergreen. The species that holds more interest for gardening and landscaping purposes is the flowering dogwood tree. The scientific name of this dogwood species is Cornus florida.

Flowering dogwood trees can be termed as one of the most popular ornamental plants, native to Eastern United States. What makes this tree special is its unique branching structure and exotic spring bloom, for which it is cherished by all.

Dogwood Tree Facts

Plant Description
It is a deciduous tree, that can grow up to a height of about 33 feet, with a trunk diameter of about 30 cm. The tree can reach a width of 35 feet at maturity. The leaves of the tree are oval-shaped, and are arranged oppositely. In autumn, the leaves turn purple, giving the tree a striking look. However, the main attraction of this flowering tree is its lovely spring blossoms, which are usually white or yellow. There are several equally beautiful cultivars of this tree, which produce attractive pink and red blossoms during spring.

The actual dogwood flowers are very small and inconspicuous. They are usually greenish-yellow in color with four petals, and occur in clusters, that can be found in the center of the four large and colorful bracts. The bracts look like petals, and they are what which give dogwood flowers their exotic look. The flowers appear in spring and remain for 2 to 3 weeks. The flowering season is soon followed by the fruiting season, and in autumn, one can find the bright red clusters of ripe fruits on these trees.

Care and Maintenance
In their natural habitat, these trees thrive in partially shaded and moist areas, under the canopy of larger trees of the forest. Dogwood care begins with selecting a proper planting site. Usually, partially shaded areas having nutrient rich soil are considered ideal for planting this tree. Arid conditions are not suitable for growing this tree. So, be sure to keep the soil moist. In general, slightly acidic, humus rich and well-drained soil is considered ideal for the growth of this tree. It has a shallow root system, and this is the reason why, one has to be very particular about regular watering. The best time for watering is in the morning.

Regular watering of this tree is most crucial during the dry season, especially, if the tree is planted in a place exposed to direct sunlight for the entire day. Like watering, feeding the plant at regular intervals is equally important. You can apply mulch once in every year to make the soil rich in organic matter. You can use peat moss, compost and even leaf mold for this purpose. If you want to go for the chemical fertilizer, then apply diluted fertilizer in the springtime. Fertilizers should be used only for the trees that have completed one year.

These trees do not require frequent pruning. Pruning unnecessarily may inhibit blooming. In general, pruning once in a year is sufficient and while pruning, remove all damaged and diseased branches, along with the drooping branches and the branches that cross one another.

Dogwood trees are vulnerable to fungus and diseases like, leaf blight or dogwood blight, powdery mildew and dogwood anthracnose. Such fungal diseases can require some additional care like, the application of fungicides. The best way to prevent such diseases is to inspect the plant at regular intervals for the growth of fungus. As far as application of fungicides is concerned, talk to an expert in this filed, regarding the appropriate dosage.

To sum up, these trees do require some care and maintenance to flourish properly. However, these amazing trees really deserves a little bit of care for their beautiful and delicate blossoms, which can create a truly fascinating sight to behold in the spring.