In the South we love our Dogwoods trees. It is no wonder Dogwoods are the subject of countless poems, songs, stories, and paintings. A southern garden is not complete without a dogwood.
With their natural beauty dogwoods are perfectly at home along a natural wood line or standing proud as a specimen tree in the front yard.
The Beauty of Dogwoods: Multi-Season Interest
- Spring– Showy bracts, often mistaken for flowers, arrive early in soft shades of white, pink, or cream lining the branches with an abundance of color
- Summer– Lush green foliage outlines what is often a beautifully arching natural looking canopy that is not too formal nor too gangly
- Autumn– The green foliage morphs into brilliant shades of crimson, burgundy, and orange, adding excitement to the fall landscape
- Winter-Once the leaves have shed, the red berries become the dominant character-at least until the birds devour them
How Dogwoods Benefit and Attract Wildlife
- Nectar and Pollen– Early spring blooms attract pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.
- Fruit for Birds-Clusters of red or pink berries ripen in late summer to early fall, offering a vital food source for songbirds like robins, cardinals, and cedar wax wings.
- Shelter and Habitat-Dense branching provides nesting sites and protective cover for small birds and wildlife.
- Biodiversity Support– Dogwoods contribute to a healthy ecosystem by hosting various native moth and butterfly larvae.
Kousa Dogwoods vs. native Florida Dogwoods
Kousa Dogwood
- Native to East Asia (China, Korea, Japan)
- Later bloom time—typically after the leaves emerge
- Bracts are pointed and creamy white, with star-like appearance
- Produces unique, raspberry-like fruit enjoyed by birds
Florida Dogwood
- Native to the eastern United States.
- Blooms earlier—before the leaves appear—for a stunning spring display.
- Bracts are rounded, with a softer, classic dogwood look
- Provides early nectar for pollinators emerging from winter dormancy
- More traditional choice for native gardens
Bet you have a spot in your yard for a beautiful dogwood or two. We would love to show you the different varieties of dogwoods we are offering for the tree sale and share our favorites with you.
