Bare Root Shade & Ornamental Trees
White Flowering Dogwood
Cornus florida
Starting at$0.85
Available options
About this plant
White flowering dogwood is a small, graceful native ornamental tree prized for its white spring flower display, layered branching, and year-round landscape interest. This bare-root tree is typically supplied at a young size and can mature to approximately 12–15 feet under suitable growing conditions.
- USDA hardiness5-9
- LightPart shade to full sun; performs best with morning sun or filtered light and protection from intense afternoon heat.
- WaterWater regularly during establishment to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Provide supplemental water during prolonged dry periods.
- SoilMoist, well-drained, organically enriched soil. Avoid poorly drained or persistently dry sites.
- Mature height144–180 in.
- Growth habitSmall, branching deciduous tree
- Growth rateSlow to moderate
Landscape uses
Shade gardens, woodland plantings, native plantings, specimen planting, and small residential landscapes.
Planting schedule
Plant bare-root trees while dormant, from late fall through early spring, as long as the ground is workable.
How to plant
Plant promptly after delivery. Keep roots moist until planting, and soak dry roots before placing the tree in the ground. Dig a broad hole, set the tree with the root flare at soil level, backfill with native soil, water deeply, and apply a light layer of mulch without touching the trunk.
Care guide
Water consistently during the first growing seasons, especially in dry weather. Maintain a mulch layer over the root zone, keep grass away from the trunk, and avoid unnecessary root disturbance or cultivation beneath the canopy.
Pruning
Prune in late winter to remove dead, damaged, crossing, or weak branches. Preserve the natural branching form and avoid heavy pruning.
Common problems
Potential problems include dogwood anthracnose, powdery mildew, leaf spot, cankers, and insect pests, especially when trees are stressed or planted in unsuitable conditions.
Seasonal care
- Spring: Water as new growth begins, refresh mulch, and enjoy the white flower display. Monitor emerging foliage for disease or pest damage.
- Summer: Keep soil evenly moist during heat and drought. Provide mulch and protect the root zone from competition.
- Fall: Water before the ground freezes if conditions are dry, and enjoy the tree’s autumn foliage and fruit.
- Winter: Plant dormant bare-root trees while the soil is workable. Protect young trunks from mechanical injury and maintain a weed-free root zone.
Frequently asked questions
How tall does a white flowering dogwood grow?
This tree is typically listed at approximately 12–15 feet when mature, depending on growing conditions.
When should a bare-root dogwood be planted?
Plant it during dormancy, from late fall through early spring, while the ground is workable.
Does white flowering dogwood need full sun?
It grows in full sun to part shade and often performs best with morning sun or filtered light.
What does white flowering dogwood look like in fall?
Its green leaves commonly develop red to reddish-purple fall color, and red fruit may be present.