Arkansas Tree Database

Scientific name:

Cornus Alternifolia

Size:

18' tall by wider

Leaves:

alternate but crowded near ends of twigs, simple, 2"-5" long, untoothed

Flowers:

small and white, with 4 petals, in flat-topped clusters, fragrant; May-July

Fruit:

blue-black berry-like fruit (called a drupe) on red stalk, with thin bitter pulp, in a cluster; August-September

Fall Interest:

yellow to red; deciduous

Culture:

morning sun, afternoon shade; moist, well-drained, acidic soil

Disease/Insect:

Use:

small flowering tree, woodland garden, native garden, pollinator garden

Cultivars:

Notes:

alternate leaves unusual for a dogwood; branches horizontal with twigs ascending; attractive to birds, butterflies, and bees; native to Arkansas