While the dogwood tree may be the state tree of Missouri, the cornus Florida dogwood can be found growing all across the Eastern and Southern parts of the United States. The flowering dogwood can also be found in some parts of Mexico. The tree is known for its soft white petals, bright red berries, and vivid red leaves in the fall months.
Eastern North American dogwood trees are showy and popular. Many people consider them to be some of the most attractive of all of the different types of flowering trees. They can grow between 20 and 40 feet (6 to 12 meters) in height and bear soft, star-shaped pink and white petals in the spring. The deciduous tree can grow up to one meter (3 feet) in diameter.
Trunks are considered short when compared with other deciduous trees. Horizontal dogwood branches grow low on the tree, making them easy to climb for small animals. The green, oppositely-positioned leaves are oval-shaped and acutely-tipped. They turn purple and red in the fall. People who take annual fall trips just to drive by color-changing leaves often make sure that dogwoods will be found on their journey.
Most people refer to the cornus Florida dogwood as simply the flowering dogwood. The bark featured on a cornus Florida dogwood is very pronounced. It is chopped in to small separate squares that cover the entire tree. Many of these squares contain deep ridges in between them where insects and other small animals may climb or hide.
Cornus Florida dogwood trees grow best in zones five through nine of the United States. The trees should be spaced at least 15 to 20 feet (5 to 6 meters) apart in order to foster optimal growth. Full sun or partial shade are recommended when growing these trees. Though the plants do require regular watering, growers are strongly cautioned to avoid over watering.
Wild birds are attracted to the cornus Florida dogwood. They enjoy the tree's ripe red berries during the fall and winter when other food sources are scarce. Bees, butterflies, and other welcome garden creatures also typically flock toward these trees.
Many different kinds of cornus Florida dogwood varieties are available for cultivation. The barton dogwood, Japanese dogwood, and Gulf Coast pink dogwood are all popular choices. Japanese dogwoods are particularly popular with people who enjoy growing moon gardens, or gardens that can be seen and experienced during both the day and night.
