Pagoda Dogwood

(Cornus alternifolia)

Pagoda Dogwood (Cornus alternifolia)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Cornus alternifolia, commonly known as Pagoda Dogwood or Green Osier, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to cool temperate forests of the Eastern and Central United States, often found in moist, well-drained soils along forest edges and stream banks. It typically grows to 25 feet (8 m) tall, occasionally reaching 30 feet (9 m), with a trunk diameter up to 6 inches (152 mm). The plant is notable for its distinctive tiered branching pattern, creating horizontal layers separated by gaps, culminating in a flat-topped crown. In late spring to early summer, it produces small, fragrant flowers arranged in clusters, with a creamy white color that can add a subtle elegance to garden settings.

Pagoda Dogwood is valued for its unique architectural form, making it an excellent choice for accent or specimen planting in residential gardens. It offers multi-season interest with its showy white flowers, followed by dark blue berries that attract birds, and reddish-purple fall foliage. This species is suitable for naturalistic plantings and as an understory tree in woodland gardens. It prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. While adaptable to various soil types, it thrives in acidic, well-drained soils. Gardeners should be aware of potential issues such as dogwood anthracnose and powdery mildew, which can affect the plant’s health.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree, Shrub
  • Height: 15-25 feet
  • Width: 20-32 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Cool temperate forests, forest edges, and stream banks

Other Names

Common Names: Pagoda Dogwood, Alternate-Leaf Dogwood, Wechselblättriger Hartriegel, Cornouiller À Feuilles Alternes, Kranskornell

Scientific Names: , Cornus alternifolia, Swida alternifolia, Bothrocaryum alternifolium, Cornus alternifolia f. ochrocarpa, Cornus alterna, Cornus alternifolia f. alternifolia, Cornus punctata, Cornus alternifolia f. albomarginata, Cornus alternifolia f. albovariegata

GBIF Accepted Name: Cornus alternifolia L.f.