Brown Dogwood
Cornus glabrata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Cornus glabrata (Brown Dogwood) is a native shrub found in California and Oregon that blooms with white flowers from May through July. This deciduous dogwood attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles while tolerating various light and water conditions.
Brown Dogwood (Cornus glabrata) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org (opens in new tab), last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
48"–120" H × 48"–120" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CA, OR
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Brown dogwood is a deciduous shrub native to western North America that grows 4-10 feet tall and wide. It features clusters of small white flowers in late spring to summer, followed by white berries. This shrub prefers partial sun and medium moisture conditions, making it suitable for woodland garden edges.
Growing Brown Dogwood
Grow Brown Dogwood in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 48 to 120 inches tall and spread 48 to 120 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Brown Dogwood is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, backyard only.
- Deciduous nature means seasonal bare branches
- Can grow quite large without regular pruning
- May look less formal than typical HOA-preferred shrubs
Wildlife value
Brown dogwood provides valuable habitat and food for wildlife. The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and beetles as pollinators, while birds enjoy the berries that follow.
Common questions
- When does Brown Dogwood bloom?
- Cornus glabrata blooms from May through July, producing clusters of small white flowers that attract various pollinators.
- What pollinators visit Brown Dogwood?
- Brown Dogwood attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles with its spring and summer blooms, making it valuable for supporting native pollinator populations.
- Where is Brown Dogwood native?
- Cornus glabrata is native to California and Oregon, where it grows naturally in woodland and riparian habitats.
- What growing conditions does Brown Dogwood prefer?
- This adaptable shrub tolerates a range of light conditions from full sun to partial shade and can handle varying moisture levels from wet to moderately dry soils.
- Is Brown Dogwood toxic to dogs?
- Brown Dogwood is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Brown Dogwood toxic to cats?
- Brown Dogwood is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is Brown Dogwood HOA-friendly?
- Brown Dogwood is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate 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 Brown Dogwood? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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