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Creeping dogwood

Cornus canadensis

KOR-nus kan-ah-DEN-sis Audio

A spreading subshrub, Cornus canadensis has whorls of leathery mid-green leaves that turn purple in the winter. Green and white, sometimes pink-flushed flowers emerge in late spring and early summer, followed by clusters of scarlet berries.

Noteworthy CharacteristicsReaches only about 6 inches tall, making it an attractive groundcover.

CareMay be difficult to establish. Prefers moist, acidic soil and cool summers.

PropagationDivide in spring or summer.

ProblemsDogwood blight, powdery mildew, canker, bacterial leaf spot, and mushroom root rot. Common: twig borers, weevils, sawfly, scale insects, aphids, leafhoppers, root knot nematodes, and thrips.

  • Genus : Cornus
  • Zones : 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
  • Plant Width : 30 feet or more
  • Plant Height : 6 to 12 inches
  • Bloom Time : Early Summer, Late Spring, Spring, Summer
  • Flower Color : Green, White
  • Uses : Ground Covers
  • Maintenance : Low
  • Moisture : Medium Moisture
  • Light : Partial Shade to Full Shade
  • Characteristics : Showy Foliage, Showy Fruit
  • Plant Type : Shrubs
  • Plant Seasonal Interest : Spring Interest

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