Cornus capitata (Evergreen Dogwood)
Prized for its lovely flowers and brightly colored fruit, Cornus capitata (Evergreen Dogwood) is a bushy evergreen tree or shrub of spreading habit, forming a low canopy of ovate, leathery, dark green leaves, that may take on purplish and reddish shades in fall. In early to midsummer, showy creamy-white, petal-like bracts surrounding insignificant, true flowers are on display, contrasting nicely with the evergreen foliage. Grabbing attention, they are followed by clusters of fleshy, strawberry-like, red berries in fall.
Prized for its lovely flowers and brightly colored fruit, Cornus capitata (Evergreen Dogwood) is a bushy evergreen tree or shrub of spreading habit, forming a low canopy of ovate, leathery, dark green leaves, that may take on purplish and reddish shades in fall. In early to midsummer, showy creamy-white, petal-like bracts surrounding insignificant, true flowers are on display, contrasting nicely with the evergreen foliage. Grabbing attention, they are followed by clusters of fleshy, strawberry-like, red berries in fall. Ornamentally attractive, they are also edible and hungry birds feast on them. A great choice for mild coastal areas.
- Grows up to 20-40 ft. tall and wide (6-12 m).
- Easily grown in organically rich, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Intolerant of heat and humidity. Provide a sheltered site.
- Great as a specimen plant or in shrub borders.
- Virtually disease-free and pest-free.
- Propagate by seed in fall or stratify and sow in spring or propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings.
- Native to China.
Requirements
| Hardiness | 8 – 9 |
|---|---|
| Heat Zones | 8 – 9 |
| Climate Zones | 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20 |
| Plant Type | Shrubs, Trees |
| Plant Family | Cornus – Dogwoods |
| Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
| Season of Interest | Spring (Early,Mid,Late)Summer (Early,Mid,Late)FallWinter |
| Height | 20' – 40' (6m – 12m) |
| Spread | 20' – 40' (6m – 12m) |
| Water Needs | Average |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Soil Type | Clay, Loam, Sand |
| Soil pH | Acid, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained |
| Characteristics | Showy, Evergreen, Fruit & Berries |
| Tolerance | Deer |
| Attracts | Birds |
| Garden Uses | Beds and Borders |
| Garden Styles | Coastal Garden, Informal and Cottage, Prairie and Meadow |