Cornus alternifolia

RHS Plant Profile
pagoda dogwood
pagoda dogwood visionspictures.com

Other common names

green osier

Synonyms

Swida alternifolia

Plants for pollinators
Shrubs Trees

A large, deciduous shrub or small, graceful tree with an arching habit up to 6m in height. Glossy, purple-green stems hold alternate, dark green, ovate leaves that turn a deep purple burgundy-red in autumn. From late spring to summer, lacy white, lightly fragrant flower heads are held above the leaves. Dark blue fruits follow in summer and are soon taken by birds.

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

4-8 metres

Max Spread

4-8 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
10–20 years
Max Spread
4-8 metres
Max Height
4-8 metres

Growing Conditions

Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained or Well–drained
pH
Acid or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H4

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Cornaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Columnar upright, Spreading branched
Genus
Cornus can be deciduous shrubs or trees, or creeping, woody-based perennials, some with brightly coloured young stems. Tiny flowers are borne in dense clusters, sometimes with showy bracts. Many have fine autumn colour
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
E N America

How to Grow

Cultivation

Favours a woodland situation, but also full sun. Grow in fertile, humus rich, moist, acid soil which does not dry out. For more advice, see flowering dogwood cultivation

Propagation

Propagate by hardwood cuttings, grafting, seed.

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Architectural
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Low Maintenance

Pruning

Pruning group 1

Pests

Generally pest-free but may be susceptible to mussel scale

Diseases

May be susceptible to cornus anthracnose and honey fungus