The Science of Dogwood Trees

Species

• The dogwood (Cornus) species produces a deciduous tree or bush that typically grows no more than 25 feet in height. The U.S. is home to 11 different species of dogwood, most of which are shrubby. Other dogwoods exist across the globe, including well-known examples like the Kousa dogwood (Cornus kousa).

Flowering Dogwood

• Most types of dogwood bloom with gusto, and the flowering dogwood (Cornus florida) is planted prolifically across the U.S. in both garden and landscape environments. It thrives in U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 5 through 9 and boasts blossoms of between 3 and 5 inches in diameter.

Features

• The leaves of dogwoods are typically opposite but may alternate. The flowers are white or yellow and last three to four weeks, first appearing between March and mid-May. Dogwood twigs claim a purple or green color. The fruit of the tree, drupes, are produced in clusters that mature between September and November.