24 Types of Dogwood Trees and Shrubs

From the iconic flowering dogwood with its showy blooms to the red-twig dogwood offering striking winter color, there are many captivating types of dogwood trees and shrubs to enhance your garden.

Dogwood trees and shrubs, belonging to the genus Cornus, are a versatile and visually striking group of plants ideal for various garden settings. With over 50 species, these plants are native to regions across North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa, showcasing their adaptability to different climates and conditions.

Dogwoods are broadly categorized into two main types: the tree form, which includes the well-known Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida), and the Kousa Dogwood (Cornus kousa), and the shrub form, such as the Red Twig Dogwood (Cornus sericea) and the Tartarian Dogwood (Cornus alba).

Dogwood trees and shrubs are celebrated for their year-round beauty. In spring, they burst into life with vibrant blossoms – from the star-like flowers of Cornus florida to the delicate blooms of Cornus kousa.

Summer highlights their lush foliage and often brings colorful fruits, like the strawberry-like berries of the Kousa Dogwood, attracting birds and wildlife.

As autumn arrives, their leaves transform into spectacular shades of red, orange, and purple, adding a warm palette to the landscape.

In winter, the bare branches of varieties like Cornus sericea, with their vivid red or yellow stems, stand out against the stark landscape, adding structural interest and color during the colder months.

Gardeners can enjoy year-round interest by choosing the right dogwood variety, from spring blossoms and summer foliage to autumn colors and winter textures.

Dogwood Trees and Shrubs For Your Garden

Cornus florida (Flowering Dogwood)

Cornus florida, the Flowering Dogwood, is renowned for its year-round beauty. This large shrub or small tree boasts a rounded, tiered canopy. Its spring features star-like white blooms, preceding leaf growth, and later produces orange-red berries favored by birds. Summer brings a dense, green canopy, transitioning to stunning purple and scarlet foliage in autumn. The bark, evolving from light gray to a textured gray-brown, adds winter charm. A perfect choice for those desiring a compact yet striking flowering tree.

Hardiness	5 - 9
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Seasons	Spring (Early, Mid, Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall, Winter
Height	15' - 30' (4.6m - 9.1m)
Spread	15' - 30' (4.6m - 9.1m)

Cornus florida f. rubra (Pink Flowering Dogwood)

Cornus florida f. rubra, the Pink Flowering Dogwood, is a beloved small deciduous tree known for year-round allure. Its broadly conical canopy showcases spring’s star-like, pink to reddish-pink flowers, preceding leaf growth. Orange-red summer fruit entices birds, and its twisted, mid-green leaves offer shade. In autumn, the foliage turns maroon and scarlet, while the bark matures from light gray to textured gray-brown, resembling alligator skin, adding winter interest. Esteemed by gardeners, it stands as one of the finest small flowering trees for landscaping.

Hardiness	5 - 9
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Seasons	Spring (Early, Mid, Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall, Winter
Height	15' - 30' (4.6m - 9.1m)
Spread	15' - 30' (4.6m - 9.1m)

Cornus kousa (Kousa Dogwood)

Cornus kousa, the Kousa Dogwood, is a small, deciduous tree or shrub admired for its year-round charm. Spring features star-like white blooms, later yielding pinkish-red to red fruits enjoyed by birds. Oval, dark green leaves offer summer shade, then turn bright red, purple, and scarlet in fall. Winter reveals its exfoliating, tan and gray bark, enhancing the landscape. This plant’s versatility makes it an excellent choice for continuous visual appeal.

Hardiness	5 - 8
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Seasons	Spring (Early, Mid, Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall, Winter
Height	15' - 30' (4.6m - 9.1m)
Spread	15' - 30' (4.6m - 9.1m)

Cornus kousa ‘Miss Satomi’ (Kousa Dogwood)

Renowned for its beauty, Cornus kousa ‘Miss Satomi’ (Kousa Dogwood) is a medium-sized deciduous shrub that delights in every season. In spring, it showcases stunning deep pink bracts surrounding tiny yellowish-green flowers. Summer brings strawberry-like fruits, while fall displays vibrant red foliage. Even in winter, its mottled bark captivates the eye.

Hardiness	5 - 8
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Seasons	Spring (Early, Mid, Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall, Winter
Height	12' - 15' (3.7m - 4.6m)
Spread	12' - 15' (3.7m - 4.6m)

Cornus kousa var. chinensis (Chinese Dogwood)

Cornus kousa var. chinensis, known as Chinese Dogwood, is a small tree or large shrub, celebrated for its beauty throughout the year. Spring brings star-like, cream blooms, followed by deep pink, strawberry-like summer fruit, beloved by birds. Its dark green leaves turn reddish-purple and scarlet in autumn, while winter showcases its exfoliating, tan and gray bark. With larger bracts, fruit, and leaves than other species, it’s perfect as a single specimen or in groupings, adding drama to any landscape.

Hardiness	5 - 8
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Seasons	Spring (Early, Mid, Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall, Winter
Height	15' - 30' (4.6m - 9.1m)
Spread	15' - 30' (4.6m - 9.1m)

Cornus nuttallii (Pacific Dogwood)

Cornus nuttallii, or Pacific Dogwood, is a deciduous tree renowned for its seasonal allure. From mid-spring to summer, it features large, creamy-white flowers, occasionally pink-tinged, transforming into orange-red fruit that both beautifies and feeds birds. Its canopy of oval leaves casts summer shade, then erupts into vivid yellow, orange, and red in autumn. Indigenous to western North America, this enduring tree is esteemed as one of the most spectacular native ornamentals of the Pacific Coast.

Hardiness	7 - 9
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Seasons	Spring (Mid, Late), Summer (Early, Mid), Fall
Height	15' - 40' (4.6m - 12.2m)
Spread	10' - 25' (3m - 7.6m)

Cornus mas (Cornelian Cherry)

Cornus mas, or Cornelian Cherry, is a versatile deciduous shrub or small tree with multiseason interest. In late winter to early spring, bright yellow flowers bloom in rounded clusters on bare branches. These are followed by glossy red cherry-like fruits in midsummer, suitable for culinary uses. The tree has oval dark green leaves that turn purple in fall, showcasing its exfoliating brown bark.

Hardiness	5 - 8
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Seasons	Spring (Early), Summer (Mid), Fall, Winter
Height	15' - 25' (4.6m - 7.6m)
Spread	12' - 20' (3.7m - 6.1m)

Cornus sericea (Red Osier Dogwood)

Transforming the winter landscape with its vibrant presence, Cornus sericea (Red Osier Dogwood) is a medium-sized shrub that captivates with its stunning features. Adaptable to various soils, it showcases eye-catching fall colors, attractive berries, and striking red or golden stems. With its rapid growth and all-season appeal, this remarkable shrub adds a touch of brilliance to the snowy surroundings.

Hardiness	3 - 8
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade
Seasons	Spring (Early, Mid, Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall, Winter
Height	6' - 9' (180cm - 270cm)
Spread	8' - 12' (240cm - 3.7m)

Cornus alba (Tatarian Dogwood)

Noted for its colorful stems and twigs in winter, Cornus alba (Tatarian Dogwood) is a medium-sized ornamental shrub with great appeal. Rapidly growing, and adaptable to wet soils or dry soils, it features spectacular decorative features: stunning fall color, attractive berries, showy red stems, and sometimes a lovely variegated summer foliage. A spectacular addition in the garden for most seasons, Tatarian Dogwood certainly adds a WOW! to a winter landscape.

Hardiness	2 - 7
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Seasons	Spring (Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall, Winter
Height	8' - 10' (240cm - 3m)
Spread	8' - 10' (240cm - 3m)

Cornus alba ‘Aurea’ (Tatarian Dogwood)

Cornus alba ‘Aurea’, an award-winning Tatarian Dogwood, is a medium-sized, suckering, deciduous shrub known for its ruby red stems and seasonal interest. Numerous stems radiate from the shrub’s base, creating a striking display. Late spring and occasional summer blossoms are tiny, white, and attract butterflies and pollinators, followed by white berry clusters devoured by birds in midsummer. The shrub’s vibrant gold-green, ovate leaves add to its allure. Celebrated for its golden foliage, attractive berries, and vivid red stems, ‘Aurea’ is a spectacular, multi-seasonal addition to any garden.

Hardiness	3 - 7
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Seasons	Spring (Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall, Winter
Height	5' - 8' (150cm - 240cm)
Spread	5' - 8' (150cm - 240cm)

Cornus alba ‘Argenteo-marginata’ (Tatarian Dogwood)

Cornus alba ‘Argenteo-marginata’, a Tatarian Dogwood, is celebrated for its deep red stems that enliven the garden year-round. This medium-sized, deciduous shrub forms a striking thicket with stems radiating from its base. Late spring brings creamy-white flowers that attract butterflies, followed by bird-friendly white berries. Its gray-green, white-margined leaves add to its allure. With its variegated foliage, attractive berries, and vivid stems, ‘Argenteo-marginata’ is a stunning addition to any garden across multiple seasons.

Hardiness	3 - 7
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Seasons	Spring (Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall, Winter
Height	4' - 10' (120cm - 3m)
Spread	5' - 8' (150cm - 240cm)

Cornus alba ‘Sibirica’ (Tatarian Dogwood)

Renowned for its striking bright coral red winter stems, the award-winning Cornus alba ‘Sibirica’ (Tatarian Dogwood) is a deciduous shrub that forms a thicket of vibrant red stems, turning bright crimson in winter. Flat-topped clusters of tiny yellowish-white flowers appear in late spring, followed by bluish-white berries. The foliage transitions from mid to dark green in summer to brilliant purple-red in fall, adding to its appeal.

Hardiness	3 - 7
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Seasons	Spring (Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall, Winter
Height	4' - 7' (120cm - 210cm)
Spread	3' - 5' (90cm - 150cm)

Cornus alternifolia (Pagoda Dogwood)

Cornus alternifolia, or Pagoda Dogwood, is a standout as either a small tree or large shrub, with unique, horizontally layered branches and purplish-brown young stems. Its leaves, which may turn reddish-purple in fall, complement the creamy-white, fragrant flowers in late spring. Blue-black berries and coral stalks add seasonal interest, attracting wildlife. Native to eastern North America.

Hardiness	4 - 8
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Seasons	Spring (Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall
Height	15' - 25' (4.6m - 7.6m)
Spread	20' - 30' (6.1m - 9.1m)

Cornus amomum (Silky Dogwood)

Silky Dogwood (Cornus amomum) is a hardy, deciduous shrub known for its open-rounded form. It showcases purple-red stems and medium to dark green, oval leaves, silky beneath. Late spring and early summer bring small, creamy-white flowers in clusters, leading to white, later porcelain-blue berries, loved by birds. Its leaves may turn reddish-purple in fall. Suited for sun or shade, Silky Dogwood thrives in moist woodlands and natural areas, ideal for shrub borders and erosion control near water bodies.

Hardiness	5 - 8
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade
Seasons	Spring (Early, Mid, Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall, Winter
Height	6' - 12' (180cm - 3.7m)
Spread	6' - 12' (180cm - 3.7m)

Cornus canadensis (Bunchberry)

Cornus canadensis, known as Bunchberry, is a rhizomatous perennial. It forms a verdant carpet of glossy, oval leaves that transition from green to wine-red or purple in autumn. The plant produces star-like blooms from late spring to midsummer, which mature into edible, red berry-like fruits persisting into fall. It’s excellent for moist, acidic woodland gardens, providing superb ground cover. Native to North America, Europe and Asia.

Hardiness	2 - 7
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Seasons	Spring (Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall
Height	4" - 9" (10cm - 23cm)
Spread	6" - 1' (15cm - 30cm)

Cornus capitata (Evergreen Dogwood)

Cornus capitata (Evergreen Dogwood) is an attractive evergreen tree or shrub with showy flowers and colorful fruit. Its spreading habit creates a low canopy of dark green leaves that may turn purplish in fall. Creamy-white bracts surround the flowers in early to midsummer, followed by clusters of red, strawberry-like berries in fall. This ornamental plant is a favorite among birds and is well-suited for mild coastal areas.

Hardiness	8 - 9
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Seasons	Spring (Early, Mid, Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall, Winter
Height	20' - 40' (6.1m - 12.2m)
Spread	20' - 40' (6.1m - 12.2m)

Cornus controversa ‘Variegata’ (Wedding Cake Tree)

Cornus controversa ‘Variegata’, the Wedding Cake Tree, is a stunning compact deciduous tree. Known for its tiered branches, the stems are red-tinged, complementing ovate leaves with eye-catching cream edges. Late spring welcomes creamy-white blossoms, followed by bird-attracting black berries in late summer. Its leafy canopy in summer transitions to gorgeous yellow in autumn. Ideal for small to medium gardens, this variegated Giant Dogwood is an exceptional garden centerpiece.

Hardiness	6 - 9
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Seasons	Spring (Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall
Height	35' - 40' (10.7m - 12.2m)
Spread	35' - 40' (10.7m - 12.2m)

Cornus drummondii (Roughleaf Dogwood)

Roughleaf Dogwood (Cornus drummondii) is a deciduous shrub or small tree from eastern North America. Its rough, elliptic leaves and creamy-yellow spring flowers attract butterflies. The blossoms develop into white summer berries, favored by songbirds. The foliage turns purple and scarlet in fall, with gray-brown, scaly bark adding texture. Ideal for windbreaks, wildlife habitats, and moist areas, it’s a versatile choice for varied landscaping needs, including rain gardens.

Hardiness	5 - 8
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Seasons	Spring (Mid, Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall
Height	6' - 15' (180cm - 4.6m)
Spread	6' - 15' (180cm - 4.6m)

Cornus foemina (Swamp Dogwood)

Swamp Dogwood (Cornus foemina) is a robust, deciduous shrub or small tree, celebrated for its bright white, fragrant flower clusters in late spring and early summer that attract pollinators. Summer and fall bring vibrant blue berries, favored by birds and small mammals. Its lance-shaped leaves turn reddish-purple in autumn, and the multi-hued bark adds textural interest. Suited for sun or shade, it thrives in both wetlands and upland areas, making it a versatile choice for diverse landscapes.

Hardiness	6 - 10
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade
Seasons	Spring (Mid, Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall
Height	10' - 25' (3m - 7.6m)
Spread	10' - 15' (3m - 4.6m)

Cornus racemosa (Gray Dogwood)

Cornus racemosa, known as Gray Dogwood, is a robust, adaptable deciduous shrub forming thickets with blue-green, elliptic leaves. Late spring brings creamy-white flowers in clusters, attracting bees and butterflies. These are followed by white berries on red stems, a favorite of wildlife, with ornamental red stalks persisting post-berries. The foliage turns reddish-purple in fall. Disease and insect-resistant, it’s ideal for erosion control, shrub borders, or naturalized areas.

Hardiness	4 - 8
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade
Seasons	Spring (Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall
Height	10' - 15' (3m - 4.6m)
Spread	10' - 15' (3m - 4.6m)

Cornus sanguinea ‘Anny’s Winter Orange’ (Bloodtwig Dogwood)

‘Anny’s Winter Orange’ (Cornus sanguinea) is a standout Bloodtwig Dogwood with impressive vigor and year-round interest. Its mid-green leaves contrast beautifully with pale yellow-orange stems. In summer, it bears clusters of white flowers, followed by dark purple berries. In fall, the foliage turns warm shades before revealing stunning orange and red stems. A must-have for any garden.

Hardiness	4 - 7
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Seasons	Spring (Early, Mid, Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall, Winter
Height	3' - 4' (90cm - 120cm)
Spread	3' - 4' (90cm - 120cm)

Cornus sanguinea ‘Magic Flame’ (Bloodtwig Dogwood)

Cornus sanguinea ‘Magic Flame’, a standout Dogwood, is a medium-sized, deciduous shrub lauded for its all-season beauty. It features large, ovate mid-green leaves against pale orange stems in spring and summer. Dense white flower clusters bloom in summer, luring butterflies, followed by dark purple berries adored by birds. Come autumn, leaves shift to bright red, orange, and gold, unveiling stunning orange stems with red tips, adding splendid color to any garden throughout the year.

Hardiness	4 - 8
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Seasons	Spring (Early, Mid, Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall, Winter
Height	5' - 6' (150cm - 180cm)
Spread	5' - 6' (150cm - 180cm)

Cornus sanguinea ‘Midwinter Fire’ (Bloodtwig Dogwood)

Renowned for its winter interest, ‘Midwinter Fire’ Bloodtwig Dogwood (Cornus sanguinea) is a must-have for vibrant displays in the cold season. Its golden fall foliage gives way to stems that transition from yellow at the base to fiery orange and crimson at the tips. Fragrant white flowers attract butterflies, followed by dark purple berries that entice birds in summer.

Hardiness	4 - 7
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Seasons	Spring (Early, Mid, Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall, Winter
Height	5' - 6' (150cm - 180cm)
Spread	5' - 6' (150cm - 180cm)

Cornus Venus (Dogwood)

Cornus Venus, a compact Dogwood, shines in small gardens with its year-long beauty. Springtime unveils large, creamy-white blooms, up to 6 inches wide, forming an impressive display. These flowers may produce pinkish-red, strawberry-like fruit. Its glossy green, oval leaves create a dense summer canopy. In autumn, the foliage bursts into a vibrant mix of yellow, red, orange, and purple. A resilient hybrid of Cornus kousa and Cornus nuttallii, ‘Venus’ excels in drought and disease resistance.

Hardiness	5 - 8
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Seasons	Spring (Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall
Height	15' - 18' (4.6m - 5.5m)
Spread	18' - 20' (5.5m - 6.1m)

Choosing and Buying Dogwood Trees and Shrubs

Choosing and buying Dogwood trees and shrubs involves considering several factors to ensure that you select the right type for your garden and that they thrive in their new environment. Here are some key points to consider:

Determine the Right Variety: Dogwoods come in various forms – from small trees like Cornus florida (Flowering Dogwood) to shrubs like Cornus sericea (Red Twig Dogwood). Consider your space, climate, and the specific look you are aiming for. Some varieties offer striking winter interest (like the brightly colored stems of Red Twig Dogwood), while others are known for their spring blooms (like the Kousa Dogwood).

Understand Your Garden’s Conditions: Dogwoods have different preferences regarding sunlight, soil type, and water needs. Most prefer well-drained soil and can thrive in both full sun and partial shade. Some species, like the Swamp Dogwood, are suited for wetter areas.

Size and Growth Habits: Consider the mature size of the Dogwood, including its height and spread. Ensure you have enough space for the tree or shrub to grow without becoming crowded.

Disease Resistance: Some Dogwood varieties are more susceptible to diseases like powdery mildew or dogwood anthracnose. Varieties like Cornus kousa are known for their disease resistance.

Seasonal Interest: Consider what each variety offers throughout the year – flowers, berries, fall color, and winter interest.

Buying from a Reputable Source: Purchase your Dogwoods from a reputable nursery or garden center. Ensure the plants are healthy and free from signs of stress or disease.

Consider Local Wildlife: Some Dogwoods are particularly attractive to wildlife like birds and butterflies, so consider if attracting wildlife is desirable in your garden.

Consult with Local Experts: If in doubt, consult with a local horticulturist or your regional extension office to get advice on the best Dogwood varieties for your area.

When buying, inspect the plant for good health, check for signs of pests or diseases, and ensure the root system is strong.

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Garden Examples

A Glowing Winter Border with Dogwood, Heath and Grasses

A Glowing Fall Border with Asters, Dogwood and Grasses

A Charming Garden Idea with Thyme, Lavender and Other Shrubs

A Pretty Spring Border with Allium, Poppies and Wedding Cake Tree

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Alan Schmierer, Flickr, Jack Nevitt, Ammlery, Jorge Salcedo, Steve Byland, Noel V. Baebler, Shutterstock, John Hartman, University of Kentucky, Bugwood.org,

While every effort has been made to describe these plants accurately, please keep in mind that height, bloom time, and color may differ in various climates. The description of these plants has been written based on numerous outside resources.