Botanical profile

Cornus alternifolia

Latin name
Cornus alternifolia
Common name
Alternate-leaved dogwood
Type
Shrub
Family
Cornaceae

Cornus alternifolia, also known as alternate-leaf dogwood, is a native shrub with a unique tiered habit, highly valued for its elegant natural structure and three-season ornamental interest. In spring, it boasts creamy white flowers in flat clusters, which give way to small black-blue fruits contrasting with their red pedicels in summer. Its medium green foliage, arranged in horizontal layers, turns golden yellow to wine red in autumn, bringing a bright and graphic accent to the garden. Very hardy and tolerant, it adapts well to light undergrowth as well as moist borders, and is perfect for naturalistic gardens, wooded transition zones, or wildlife hedges. It is an ecological, understated, and elegant shrub, well adapted to the Quebec climate.

Care guide

Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Zone 3
Exposure
Sun to partial shade
Watering
Moderate, appreciates cool soils
Fertilization
Light top-dressing in spring if soil is poor
Soil type
Fresh, well-drained to slightly moist
Minimum temperature
-40°C
Plant appearance

Blooming, foliage and shape

Blooming period
Spring
Flower color
Creamy white
Fruiting
Small, bluish-black fruit on red stalks
Foliage color
Green → yellow, wine-red (autumn)
Foliage type
Obsolete
Shape
Natural terracing
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
5 m (16 ft)
Width
4 m (13 ft)
Growth rate
Moderate
Pet friendly
Safe for pets

Pets

Pollinators
Attracts or supports pollinating insects

Pollinators

Butterflies
Plants that attract butterflies

Butterflies

Deer
Less attractive or generally tolerated by deer

Deer

The availability of our plants varies depending on arrivals, seasons, nursery production and supplier availability. Some varieties may be offered for a limited time only, depending on their natural cycle or current stock. These plant profiles are designed to guide and inspire you when choosing plants for the garden, landscaping projects, containers or long-lasting outdoor arrangements.