Botanical profile

Cornus racemosa

Latin name
Cornus racemosa
Common name
Gray dogwood
Type
Native shrub
Family
Cornaceae

Cornus racemosa, commonly known as gray dogwood, is a hardy and versatile native shrub, widely used for naturalistic and ecological landscaping. It forms a dense, spreading, often suckering shrub, making it an excellent choice for informal hedges, soil stabilization, and plantings along woodlands or embankments. Its deciduous medium green foliage turns pale yellow in autumn, while its discreet spring blooms give way to clusters of white berries much appreciated by wildlife. Its grayish branches add subtle winter interest. Extremely hardy and perfectly adapted to Quebec conditions, Cornus racemosa tolerates poor, dry, or calcareous soils and is a sustainable choice for promoting biodiversity while structuring the landscape.

Care guide

Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Zone 2–7
Exposure
Sun to partial shade
Watering
Moderate to regular
Fertilization
None required
Soil type
Tolerant, dry to cool, poor to chalky
Minimum temperature
-40°C
Plant appearance

Blooming, foliage and shape

Blooming period
Spring
Flower color
Creamy white
Fruiting
White berries in clusters, very popular with wildlife
Foliage color
Green
Foliage type
Obsolete
Shape
Dense, spreading, suckering shrub
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
3–4 m (10–13 ft)
Width
3–4 m (10–13 ft)
Growth rate
Fast
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.