Pink Flowering Dogwood

Pink Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida 'Rubra')

Pink Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida 'Rubra') is a classic selection of the native Eastern Flowering Dogwood, cherished for its soft pink spring blooms, graceful branching, and year-round beauty. As one of the most widely planted pink dogwoods, it adds timeless charm to residential landscapes, woodland gardens, and native plantings.

Distinctive Features

'Rubra' is noted for its large, showy bracts that open rose-pink and fade to soft pink as they mature, typically blooming in mid-spring. The flowers appear before the foliage fully emerges, creating a striking contrast against bare branches. Glossy green summer leaves turn deep red to burgundy in fall, and bright red berries develop in late summer, providing food for birds. The tree matures at 20 to 25 feet tall and wide with a broad, layered canopy and horizontal branching.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Partial shade; tolerates full sun with consistent moisture
• Soil: Moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil
• Water: Moderate; prefers even moisture, especially when young
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5�9

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Soft pink spring blooms and elegant form provide standout appeal
• Foundation Plantings: Well-suited near homes and entryways for seasonal interest
• Woodland Gardens: Blends beautifully in dappled light with ferns and native understory plants
• Bird-Friendly Gardens: Produces fruit that attracts songbirds and small mammals
• Mixed Borders: Partners well with azaleas, rhododendrons, and spring-flowering bulbs

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Maintain consistent soil moisture, particularly during establishment
• Pruning: Minimal; prune only to remove dead or crossing branches in late winter
• Fertilizing: Use an acid-forming fertilizer in early spring if necessary
• Mulching: Apply organic mulch to conserve moisture and protect roots
• Protection: Choose a well-ventilated site to reduce disease risk; avoid compacted soils

Why Choose Pink Flowering Dogwood?

• Timeless Pink Flowers: Delicate blooms offer classic spring color
• Four-Season Appeal: Enjoy spring flowers, summer foliage, fall color, and winter structure
• Native Adaptability: Thrives in Eastern U.S. landscapes and supports local ecosystems
• Graceful Form: Naturally layered silhouette brings elegance to any setting
• Focal Point: Beloved ornamental tree that anchors front yards and garden beds

Cornus florida 'Rubra' brings a refined sense of beauty and tradition to the landscape, offering gardeners a dependable focal point tree with lasting seasonal charm and ecological value.