Dogwood Pagoda

Pagoda Dogwood, 'Cornus alternifolia', is a large ornamental shrub, or small tree, with irregular tiers of branches forming a somewhat horizontal plant. It reaches a maximum height of around 25 feet. The pale yellow flowers in May are followed by blue black fruits. The fragrant flowering that occurs in late May and early June and can be described as moderately showy. Pagoda Dogwood prefers cool, moist, acidic soils and partial shade is ideal, but full sun is acceptable if the site is not hot and dry. It does perform best in colder climates. The older bark is gray brown and lightly ridged and furrowed with the younger bark being smooth and reddish brown. The fruit stalks remain and turn a pleasing coral red color in late winter. This shrub is disease resistant and has a fibrous, spreading root system.