Pagoda dogwood (Cornus alternifolia) is a large shrub or small tree for a garden or backyard. “Kousa” is apparently the Japanese word for dogwood. It is a good choice for attracting birds to your yard. in thirty years; moderate growth rate Width: 15’-30’ spread Light: Requires full sun, partial sun or partial shade Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soil Shape: Spreading Leaves: Showy in fall turning purple or red Flowers: Showy, white and fragrant Fruit: Showy bluish black drupes that attract wildlife Pagoda Dogwood Cornus alternifolia Pagoda Dogwood is an ornamental shrub or tree that is native to the eastern portion of the United States. The pagoda dogwood is hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 3 through 7. It produces navy blue berries in mid summer. It has a low canopy with a typical clearance of 2 feet from the ground, and is suitable for planting under power lines. These adaptable trees are most often found in moist forests, along streams and creek banks, as well as in open meadows. Hence, one should know the basic difference between Kousa Dogwood and Pagoda Dogwood if you are planning to have them in your garden to enhance its beauty. Horizontal branches give this plant its name. Fertilizers required for proper growth of Kousa Dogwood are Fertilize in early spring and Mulch, whereas for Pagoda Dogwood fertilizers required are Fertilize in early spring and Mulch. It has a low canopy with a typical clearance of 2 feet from the ground, and is suitable for planting under power lines. It has a low canopy with a typical clearance of 1 foot from the ground, and is suitable for planting under power lines. It is particular about its soil conditions, with a strong preference for rich, acidic soils. Small, fragrant, yellowish-white flowers appear in flattened cymes in late spring. Growth Rate and Mature Height Depending on the species of Dogwood you plant, you may have a short stout bush or a 25 foot tall tree. Pagoda Dogwood (Cornus alternifolia) Very attractive small tree or large multi-stemmed shrub. … Becomes small tree with pruning. All Rights Reserved. The plant's common name derives from the tiered, pagoda-like shape of the growth habit, and the Latin species name derives from the alternate position of the leaves on the stems. Its elegant structure is complemented by a cloak of gloriously variegated leaves - bright yellow with a splotch of emerald green in the center, taking on pink tones on the new growth in cool weather. Produces clusters of fragrant white flowers in late summer, which are followed by purplish-black berries. This pagoda dogwood naturally grows with a distinctive horizontal branching habit, which gives it a strong but not overwhelming presence. Dark blue fruit appears later and is much appreciated by songbirds. Medium to fast growth rate. Growth rate: Dogwood trees grow quickly, with a fast rate of over a foot a year. It has no significant negative characteristics. If you’re interested in the meaning behind common tree names, this one may underwhelm. Pagoda Dogwood Cornus alternifolia Size: 15’-25’ Tall and 20’-30’ Wide Growth Habit: Horizontal branching with slight upward turn at ends. Some afternoon shade is appreciated in hot summer climates such as the St. Louis area. Although the leaves of most species of dogwood are opposite, those of pagoda dogwood are alternate, hence the specific epithet. This species is native to parts of North America. Tree information: The alternate leaves give this plant its name. Golden Shadows® is even more striking with its 4″ iridescent lime-green leaves, broadly edged in gold, and fragrant, white clusters of flower bracts. The Chinese dogwood, sometimes called kousa dogwood, grows a bit slower on average than flowering dogwood: about 10 feet in 15 years. Pagoda Dogwood Cornus alternifolia Description & Overview. Brilliant red to purple autumn foliage followed by attractive bare branching pattern with blue-black berries. Pagoda Dogwood is a common and widespread understory species of hardwood and mixed forests. Moderate growth to 20 feet tall and wide. Covid-19 Update The tree grows in sun or shade. free shipping on orders over $100. Growth spreads horizontally bearing unique alternate leaves. Pagoda Dogwood is an open multi-stemmed deciduous tree with a stunning habit of growth which features almost oriental horizontally-tiered branches. This is a relatively low maintenance tree, and usually looks its best without pruning, although it will tolerate pruning. How To Start These Seeds: Pagoda Dogwood is recommended for the following landscape applications; Pagoda Dogwood will grow to be about 20 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 25 feet. Part sun. Its average texture blends into the landscape, but can be balanced by one or two finer or coarser trees or shrubs for an effective composition. This large shrub/ medium tree grows to 1… The common name for Cornus alternifolia, Pagoda Dogwood, comes from the graceful, horizontal branching habit of this small tree. A tree planted this year will reach full-size in about a decade. It has emerald green foliage throughout the season. Best performance occurs in cool summer climates. For more pagoda dogwood information, including tips for pagoda dogwood care, read on. It has been cultivated since 1880 and it is the only hardy dogwood tree in Minnesota. Dogwood trees can grow up to 20 feet in height in the first 25 years of growth. PAGODA DOGWOOD (CORNUS ALTERNIFOLIA) Location: Several are to the right of No. It grows in woods, thickets and on rocky slopes where it forms a small clump tree. When choosing a location, keep in mind that the Pagoda Dogwood has a slow growth rate. Provide consistent moisture and mulch root zone. What it needs: Pagoda Dogwood is an extremely tolerant tree which can grow in nearly any conditions. Under the right conditions, mature dogwoods can reach a height of 40 feet. Pagoda Dogwood will grow to be about 20 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 25 feet. Pagoda Dogwood can be found in the cool climates of Eastern North America. Copyright 2020 Treehelp.com, Sign up for our newsletter to receive special offers and promotions. Native to Japan, Korea and China, the first scientific observations of the kousa dogwood in the United States were recorded in 1875. Pagoda Dogwood gets its name from its branching habit's resemblance to the tiers of a Chinese pagoda. Ornamental in four seasons, displaying flowers, foliage, form, fruit and fall color. If you examine any other dogwood—Flowering Dogwood, Japanese “Kousa” Dogwood, even the shrubby Red-Twigs—you’ll see that the leaves are arranged in pairs. Pagoda Dogwood adds a distinct look to the landscape, and oftentimes should be treated as a focal point in the yard. The pointy leaves turn an outstanding burgundy in the fall. Green summer foliage picks up purplish tones in the fall. It grows at a slow rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for approximately 30 years. Pagoda Dogwood has clusters of fragrant creamy white flowers held atop the branches in late spring. Pagoda Dogwood Information. It is a deciduous shrub or tree that normally grows 15-20 feet high, but has been recorded at 48 feet, with a diameter that can … The tree displays medium growth, averaging between 13 and 24 inches annually. Source: Michigan State University Extension, USA: 1051 Clinton Street, Buffalo, NY 14206, All Prices in USD. It can be planted in zones 4 to 7. Flowers give way to bluish-black fruits (drupes) that mature in summer. Foliage: Deciduous. Pagoda Dogwood will grow to be about 20 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 25 feet. Comments Pagoda Dogwood grows slowly at first but becomes moderate with age. Deciduous tree 15-25' tall with distinctive horizontal branching. The layered habit is its most recognizable feature. It grows at a slow rate, and under ideal conditions … When you're seeking a plant for shady areas (partial, open shade), consider one of the excellent cultivars of pagoda dogwood (Cornus alternifolia), such as 'Golden Shadows,' with brightly-colored variegated leaves. It requires an evenly moist well-drained soil for optimal growth, but will die in standing water. Pagoda Dogwood’s species name, alternifolia, refers to the fact that it’s the only dogwood with leaves arranged alternately, or in zigzag fashion along the branches. It can grow in dense shade and may form small colonies when its lower branches contact the ground and take root, sending up new stems. The tree grows in sun or shade. The pagoda dogwood tree (Cornus alternifolia) is a shrub-like tree that grows to over 15 feet tall and features a crown just as wide. Bluish-black fruit are produced after the flowers. Pagoda Dogwood. Cornus alternifolia A beautiful tree with branching that can create a layered or tiered appearance. This tree should be kept at least 10ft away from buildings. The Pagoda Dogwood (Cornus alternifolia) is a native plant that grows from the Mississippi River east from Zones three to seven. It grows at a slow rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for approximately 30 years. The Variegated Pagoda Dogwood will grow to be about 15 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 20 feet. It has a low canopy with a typical clearance of 2 feet from the ground, and is suitable for planting under power lines. Full sun to half shade. Appeal: The Pagoda Dogwood cultivar is distinguished by its Pagoda Dogwood will grow to be about 20 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 25 feet. Pagoda Dogwood grows slowly at first but becomes moderate with age. It is quite intolerant of urban pollution, therefore inner city or urban streetside plantings are best avoided, and will benefit from being planted in a relatively sheltered location. It gets its name from its broad, spreading, layered branches and is widely popular as a landscaping shrub. The fall color is deep red and the white flowers are produced in clusters in the spring. 2-inch clusters of slightly fragrant flowers in spring give way to blue-black berries on red peduncles (flower stalks) in summer, a favorite of native wildlife. It grows at a slow rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for approximately 30 years. Native to Wisconsin’s woodlands and forests, Pagoda Dogwood is an incredibly useful small tree or large shrub that provides year-round interest in the landscape. Deciduous. The pagoda dogwood (Cornus alternifolia) is also known as the blue dogwood, green osier, pagoda-cornel, and alternate-leaf dogwood. Bluish-black fruit are produced after the flowers. The Story. Consider applying a thick mulch around the root zone in winter to protect it in exposed locations or colder microclimates. Pagoda Dogwood Tree. Despite the Asian reference, though, this tree is 100% American, native to swampy areas of the Eastern U.S. If you are looking for a dogwood tree with a moderate growth rate, consider Cherokee Chief, Cherokee Daybreak and Cherokee Sunset. Native plant enthusiasts have always admired this small ornamental tree, but it has never really caught on with the general public. ©2020 Connon Nurseries. It is also an attractive plant. The fall color is deep red and the white flowers are produced in clusters in the spring. A truly special plant for northern landscapes, valued for its almost "oriental" horizontal branching habit; white flowers in spring, blue berries and purple fall color; quite fussy, needs a cool, moist site with afternoon shade, also prefers acidic soil. It grows at a slow rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for approximately 30 years. Best grown in acidic, organically rich, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. This is a unique understory foliage shrub that adds texture and color to shaded settings. Good disease and pest resistance. 16 fairway. It grows up to 25 feet in height and 35 feet in spread. Growth Rate: Moderate Light Requirements: Full sun to Part Shade Soil Requirements: Prefers acidic, organically rich, moist but well-drained soils. Requires partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. This growth habit gives a unique look of layers to the tree. Care for your own trees with our 3-step do-it-yourself maintenance kit. 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