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Cornus nuttallii
western dogwood, Pacific dogwood
Pacific Coast from southern British Columbia to southern California; coastal and lower montane coniferous forests below 6,000 feet (1,800 m) elevationLearn more
Overview
Cornus nuttallii is Pacific dogwood (western dogwood), a deciduous tree growing 20-50 feet (6-15 m) tall and 15-30 feet (4.5-9 m) wide. White bracts (typically 6, sometimes 4-7) 3-5 inches (7-13 cm) across surrounding green-purple true flowers in April-May, with a secondary lighter bloom in September-October. Medium to dark green ovate leaves 3-5 inches (7-13 cm) with arcuate venation. Turns yellow, orange, and red in fall. Clusters of red-orange drupes 0.4 inch (10 mm). In Cornaceae. Native to the Pacific Coast from southern British Columbia to southern California. The provincial flower of British Columbia. Dogwood anthracnose (Discula destructiva) is the primary limitation — has severely reduced wild populations in the Pacific Northwest since the 1980s. Does not tolerate heat, drought, or transplanting well — resents root disturbance. Transplant only as a small container-grown tree. Does not thrive outside its native Pacific Coast range. The secondary fall bloom (September-October) is unique among commonly cultivated dogwoods. Non-toxic. Zones 6-9. Part shade. Growth rate is moderate.
Native Range
Native to the Pacific Coast from southern British Columbia to southern California. Found in coastal and lower montane coniferous forests below 6,000 feet (1,800 m) elevation.Suggested Uses
Grown as an understory tree in Pacific Coast woodland gardens and native plant gardens spaced 15-30 feet (4.5-9 m). Spring and fall bloom. Native to the Pacific Coast. Anthracnose-susceptible. Does not thrive outside native range. Non-toxic. Zones 6-9.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height20' - 50'
Width/Spread15' - 30'
Reaches mature size in approximately 12 years
Bloom Information
Mid spring (April-May) with a secondary lighter bloom in September-October. White bracts (typically 6) 3-5 inches (7-13 cm) surrounding green-purple true flowers. 3 weeks of spring bloom. Bee- and butterfly-pollinated. Red-orange drupes follow in fall.Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
White bracts (typically 6, sometimes 4-7), 3-5 inches (7-13 cm) across, surrounding a tight cluster of green-purple true flowersFoliage Description
Medium to dark green, ovate with arcuate venation, 3-5 inches (7-13 cm) long; turns yellow, orange, and red in fallGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 3-6 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Part shade (3-6 hours — dappled shade in coniferous forest is the natural habitat). Well-drained acidic soil pH 5.5-6.5. Does not tolerate heat or drought. Dogwood anthracnose — maintain air circulation, avoid overhead irrigation. Resents transplanting — use small container-grown trees. Does not thrive outside the Pacific Coast range. Non-toxic. Zones 6-9.Pruning
Prune in summer (June-August). Remove dead, crossing, or anthracnose-infected branches. Disinfect tools between cuts. The upright form is natural. Minimal pruning needed on healthy trees.Pruning Schedule
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