Cornus alternifolia

Cornus alternifolia (Pagoda Dogwood) is a native understory tree known for its distinctive horizontal branching and layered structure. Creamy white flowers in spring are followed by dark blue berries, making it both ornamental and highly valuable for wildlife.

Height & Spread: 15 - 25 ft x 20 - 30 ft

Bloom Time: Late spring

Light Requirements: Partial shade

Soil Preference: Moist, well drained soils

Watering Needs: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture

Deer Resistance: Low to moderate deer resistance

Native Status

Native to eastern North America, typically found in woodland edges and understory habitats.

WILDLIFE & INSECTS

Birds

• Berries attract birds such as Robins, Catbirds, and Cedar Waxwings.

Bees

• Flowers attract native pollinators in spring.

Butterflies

• Supports pollinator activity and native insect species.

Spacing & Landscape Use

Spacing Recommendations

• Plant 20 - 30 ft apart to allow for layered branching.

Landscape Placement

• Ideal for woodland gardens, understory plantings, and naturalized areas.

Companion Plants

• Carpinus caroliniana - Complements understory structure and woodland form.
• Amelanchier laevis - Adds spring bloom and fruiting interest.
• Dryopteris marginalis - Provides evergreen fern texture beneath branching layers.
• Polygonatum biflorum (Solomon’s Seal) - Adds graceful, arching form in shaded plantings.