Pacific Dogwood • Cornus nuttallii

Pacific Dogwood will bloom around April and May, and can also bloom a second time in late summer, possibly due to late season water stress conditions. Leaves emerge shortly after blooms abscise from the tree, and continue to develop into summer.

Summer also sees the development of fruit, starting off as a light green color and eventually turning shades of red when ripe in early fall. The fruit is technically edible, however mealy and bitter.

Fall brings a splash of color, as leaves gradually turn shades of yellow, orange, and red before falling off onto the ground. This is also when the fruit will be the most enticing to local wildlife, as it is easy to see on the bare branches. 

Pacific Dogwood trees are prone to sunburn, so plant them in areas that receive morning sun and afternoon shade. Remember that it doesn't like to be fussed over, and over-loving this tree may do more harm than good. Summer waterings should be infrequent, and pruning only dead and diseased wood is recommended during the first few years.

They prefer well-draining, moist, and moderately acidic soils with a pH range between 5.5 to 6. A thick layer of humus is recommended, so adding a heavy amount of compost to the soil during planting will help give your Pacific Dogwood a head start.