Photo ©
James Baugh
Pagoda Dogwood (Cornus alternifolia) is a type of shrub, or small tree, which produces beautiful and fragrant white or pale yellow flowers in the spring. During the summer, it is loaded with berries of an intense dark blue color. Many species of wild birds and butterflies are attracted by the flowers of this shrub, as well as by its fruits in the latter part of the summer. By planting Pagoda Dogwood, you help birds and other forms of wild life, as well as beautify your neighborhood.
The Pagoda Dogwood can measure between 15 and 25 feet in height (between 4 and 8 meters) and takes up a good amount of space since its branches tend to grow quite a bit out the sides. Nevertheless, if you plant these shrubs in containers, it’s likely they’ll be smaller. So make sure that when you plant them in containers, the plant variety is relatively small and the container rather large. This beautiful small tree prefers acidic and damp soil, and grows best in sunny areas or with a bit of shade during the day.
Instructions
- Plant in a rather large container with good drainage and make sure the container receives sunlight for at least part of the day. The Pagoda Dogwood is ideal to plant along buildings or yards that have much shade or large trees.
- It is preferred that you use acidic soil for gardening; however, neutral soil also works
- Keep the soil damp, but not so that it forms mud or that water accumulates on the surface. Water with frequency and do not allow the soil to dry because this small tree cannot survive droughts.
- The Pagoda Dogwood takes time to grow and give flowers and fruits in quantity. You must have patience!
If you wish to know more about the Pagoda Dogwood of North America, visit this page by the University of Kentucky.