Pink Flowering Dogwood
Cornus florida f. rubra · Deciduous, Broadleaf, Native Hardwood
Plant Family
Cornaceae
Tree Category
Ornamental, Flowering, Understory Tree
Variety / Cultivar
f. rubra (frequently represented by cultivars like 'Cherokee Chief' or 'Apple Blossom')
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 5 through 9
About This Tree
A small, low-branched deciduous tree with a flat-topped, spreading crown. Famous for its showy pink bracts that appear before leaves fully emerge, horizontal branching pattern, and brilliant red fall color.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, opposite, ovate leaves with prominent veins that curve toward the tip (arcuate venation). Dark green in summer, turning reddish-purple or scarlet in autumn.
Bark Characteristics
Distinctive 'alligator bark' appearance on mature trees, broken into small, square, gray-brown blocks or scales.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Eastern North America, from Maine and Ontario to Florida and eastern Texas
Growing Season
Leafs out in late spring after flowering; blooms in April to May; red berries develop in late summer; enters dormancy after fall foliage drop.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Partial shade (preferred) to full sun; needs moist, well-drained, acidic soil. Moderate drought tolerance once established but prefers consistent moisture.
Mature Size
15–30 feet in height with a similar or slightly larger spread; slow to moderate growth rate; can live up to 80 years.
Special Characteristics
Exceptional ornamental value; the 'flowers' are actually four large pink bracts surrounding tiny yellowish-green true flowers. Known for excellent fall color and high-fat fruit for wildlife.
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides high-calcium and high-fat red drupes for over 75 species of birds and small mammals; host plant for the Spring Azure butterfly; serves as a vital understory component in eastern forests.