Pagoda Dogwood

A Multi-Season Wonder for Your Landscape

Multi Season Wonder

The Pagoda Dogwood (Cornus alternifolia) is a captivating small tree or large shrub native to eastern North America. Renowned for its unique layered branching structure (giving is a Japanese garden feel) and year-round visual interest, it offers a beautiful addition to various landscapes. Whether you’re seeking a focal point for your garden or a graceful accent piece, the Pagoda Dogwood is a versatile choice.

Distinctive Branching Creates a Pagoda Effect

The Pagoda Dogwood gets its name from its most striking feature: its horizontal branching pattern. Unlike most dogwoods with opposite branching, the Pagoda Dogwood’s branches grow in a tiered, almost layered fashion, creating a pagoda-like silhouette. This unique structure adds architectural interest to your landscape, even during the winter months when the leaves have fallen.

What You Need To Know:

Appearance: Striking horizontal branching creates a distinctive tiered, or “pagoda-like” form. Produces clusters of creamy-white flowers in late spring, followed by small, blue-black fruits attractive to birds.
Foliage: Dark green leaves turn vibrant shades of red and purple in autumn.
Size:
- Height: Typically reaches 15-25 feet tall
- Spread: Similar to height, creating a wide, layered structure.
Growth Rate:1-2 feet per year after establishment.
Lifespan: With good care, a healthy Pagoda Dogwood can live for 25-50 years.
Light Requirements: Prefers partial shade, especially in warmer climates. Tolerates full sun in cooler regions.
Soil: Thrives in moist, well-draining, slightly acidic soil. Benefits from organic mulch.
Water: Prefers regular moisture. Can tolerate short periods of drought once established.
Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 3-7.
Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer
Flower Duration: Approximately 2 weeks

Additional Notes

Native Species: Pagoda Dogwood is native to Eastern North America.
Shade Resistant: Its natural habitat is in the shade of taller trees, making it a great choice for woodland gardens or partially shaded areas
Deer Resistant: A welcome benefit for gardeners! Deer tend to avoid browsing on Pagoda Dogwood foliage, allowing you to enjoy its beauty without worry.

Interested In Adding This Unique Tree To Your Property?

Contact Edmonton Arborist and our expert tree planting team will bring and install your very own Pagoda Dogwood!