Panicled Dogwood
Cornus racemosa
Last reviewed: July 2026
Cornus racemosa (Panicled Dogwood) is a native deciduous shrub found across the eastern and central United States. It produces white flower clusters in June and July, attracting bees, beetles, and flies.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Panicled Dogwood as toxic to livestock.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
72"–180" H × 72"–180" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul
Native to
CT, IA, IL, IN and 21 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Panicled dogwood is a native shrub that forms a broad, rounded shape with clusters of small white flowers in summer. It produces white berries that attract birds and has attractive fall color, making it a versatile landscape plant.
Growing Panicled Dogwood
Grow Panicled Dogwood in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 72 to 180 inches tall and spread 72 to 180 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Panicled Dogwood is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, foundation.
- Large mature size may overwhelm smaller spaces
- Can spread via suckers if not maintained
Wildlife value
The flowers attract various pollinators including bees, beetles, and flies during summer blooming. Birds feed on the white berries produced in late summer and fall.
Common questions
- Where is Panicled Dogwood native?
- Cornus racemosa is native to much of the eastern and central United States, including states from Maine to Texas and from the Atlantic coast west to Nebraska and Iowa.
- When does Panicled Dogwood bloom?
- Panicled Dogwood typically blooms in June and July, producing clusters of small white flowers.
- What pollinators visit Panicled Dogwood?
- The flowers of Cornus racemosa attract various pollinators including bees, beetles, and flies.
- What growing conditions does Panicled Dogwood prefer?
- This adaptable shrub tolerates a range of light conditions from full sun to partial shade and can grow in various moisture levels from wet to dry soils.
- Is Panicled Dogwood toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Panicled Dogwood as toxic to livestock.
- Is Panicled Dogwood HOA-friendly?
- Panicled 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 Panicled Dogwood? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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