Cornus alternifolia (Pagoda Dogwood)
Habit
Pagoda Dogwood is a small tree or small shrub reaching about 15-25 feet in height. Its branching habit is typically spreading, growing to possibly 35-40 feet wide at maturity. Branches grow in horizontal tiers, thus the common name.
Color
Clusters of white flowers adorn the branches in mid-Spring. Flowers are extremely fragrant! Bluish black fruits ripen in summer. Dark green leaves in summer change to a pretty bronze in autumn.
Culture
An understory plant that needs moist, acidic, well-drained soil. Best planted in part shade but will thrive in full sun once established. Does not like overly dry habitats. Easy to transplant due to its very fibrous root system.