Pink Flowering Dogwood
Cornus florida f. rubra · Deciduous Broadleaf
Plant Family
Cornaceae
Tree Category
Ornamental / Flowering Tree
Variety / Cultivar
f. rubra (Pink/Rose form)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 5-9; tolerant of cold winters but sensitive to extreme heat and drought.
About This Tree
A small deciduous tree with a graceful, low-branching habit and a flat-topped to rounded crown. Notable for its large, pink floral bracts that appear in spring and its layered, horizontal branching pattern.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, opposite arrangement, 3-5 inches long, oval to ovate with entire margins and distinct curved (arcuate) veins. Dark green in summer, turning reddish-purple or scarlet in fall.
Bark Characteristics
Grey-brown and very distinctive; it breaks into small, square or rectangular boney blocks, often described as 'alligator bark' as the tree matures.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Eastern North America; from Maine to Florida and west to eastern Texas.
Growing Season
Flowers in early spring (April/May) before or as leaves emerge; fruits ripen in late summer/autumn; enters dormancy in late fall after vibrant foliage display.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Prefers partial shade (understory) to full sun; requires moist, well-drained, acidic soil. Low drought tolerance; needs supplemental watering during dry spells.
Mature Size
Typically reaches 15-30 feet in height and spread; slow to moderate growth rate; can live 80+ years in ideal conditions.
Special Characteristics
Features stunning pink spring bracts, vibrant red fall foliage, and cluster of red berries. Known for high ornamental value but susceptible to dogwood anthracnose and powdery mildew.
Wildlife & Ecology
Extremely high ecological value; red fruits provide high-fat winter food for over 35 species of birds and small mammals; blooms support pollinators; larval host for several moth species.