Alternate-leaf Dogwood
Cornus alternifolia
Last reviewed: July 2026
Cornus alternifolia is a native deciduous tree found throughout eastern North America from Florida to Maine. It produces clusters of small white flowers in May and June that attract bees, beetles, and flies.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Alternate-leaf Dogwood as toxic to livestock.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
120"–240" H × 120"–240" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 26 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles, flies
Deer
Resistant (per Prairie Moon Nursery)
Alternate-leaf dogwood is a native small tree with distinctive horizontal branching that creates attractive layered tiers. It produces clusters of small white flowers in late spring, followed by dark blue berries on red stems that provide striking fall color.
Growing Alternate-leaf Dogwood
Grow Alternate-leaf Dogwood in part shade and medium water. Mature plants reach 120 to 240 inches tall and spread 120 to 240 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Alternate-leaf Dogwood is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, mid zone.
- Large mature size may require pruning in smaller spaces
Wildlife value
Host plant for spring azure, white admiral.
The flowers attract bees, beetles, and flies in May and June. The berries are valuable food for birds, and the tree serves as a host plant for several native moth species.
Common questions
- Where does Alternate-leaf Dogwood naturally grow?
- Cornus alternifolia is native to much of eastern North America, ranging from Florida north to Maine and west to Minnesota and Iowa.
- When does Alternate-leaf Dogwood bloom?
- Alternate-leaf Dogwood typically blooms in May and June, producing flat-topped clusters of small white flowers.
- What pollinators visit Alternate-leaf Dogwood?
- The flowers attract various pollinators including bees, beetles, and flies, making it valuable for supporting native insect populations.
- What growing conditions does Alternate-leaf Dogwood prefer?
- This adaptable tree tolerates a range of light conditions from partial sun to shade and can grow in various moisture levels, though it typically prefers medium moisture.
- Is Alternate-leaf Dogwood toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Alternate-leaf Dogwood as toxic to livestock.
- Is Alternate-leaf Dogwood HOA-friendly?
- Alternate-leaf Dogwood is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Alternate-leaf Dogwood? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz