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| Leaf Photo by: Steven J. Baskauf |
Bark Photo by: Steven J. Baskauf |
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| Flower Photo by: Sean Fox |
Tree Photo by: Sean Fox |
The showy white parts of a flowering dogwood “flower” are called bracts, similar to the coloured parts seen on Christmas poinsettias.
Flowering dogwood is an understory species native to the Carolinian zone of southwestern Ontario, but is becoming increasingly rare due to an anthracnose disease. It is listed as provincially and nationally Endangered and is protected under the Endangered Species Act, 2007.
Flowering dogwood is easily recognized in spring when 4 large white flower-like bracts appear before the leaves expand. Leaves are opposite, simple, often with wavy edges and turn red in the fall. The fruits are also bright red, in clusters that may persist after the leaves have fallen.
Large specimens have square, alligator skin like plates. Flowering dogwood is often planted as an ornamental and many horticultural cultivars exist.
Size: Up to 10 m tall
Moisture: Prefers moist sites
Shade: Prefers light shade or full sun with ample moisture
Soil: Prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soils
Planting Tip: If you are interested in planting flowering dogwood as part of the Recovery Strategy, contact your local Ministry of Natural Resources Species at Risk biologist. More tips...
