Flowering Dogwood
Cornus florida
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
240"–480" H × 240"–480" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 27 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Flowering dogwood is a beloved native tree known for its showy white or pink bracts in spring and brilliant red fall foliage. This medium-sized tree develops an attractive horizontal branching pattern and provides year-round interest with its distinctive bark and berries.
In an HOA neighborhood
Flowering Dogwood takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Poor cold hardiness for zone 3-4 winters
- Likely to suffer winter damage or die
Wildlife value
Host plant for Spring Azure, Cecropia Moth, Dogwood Thyatirin Moth.
The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and beetles in spring, while the bright red berries feed over 35 bird species. The tree also hosts several butterfly caterpillars and provides nesting sites for birds.
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.
Does Flowering Dogwood fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.