Dogwood trees are easily recognizable and incredibly popular in the home landscape and for good reason. These beautiful trees are symbols of spring. They offer dazzling displays in both spring and fall. Enjoy attractive blooms in early or mid spring, depending on the variety, and amazing red autumn foliage. Flowering dogwood trees only reach about 15 to 25 feet tall with a similar spread so they are great for most front yards. They can grow in full sun or part shade. You have some different options when it comes to types of dogwood trees to plant in your yard. Let us help you determine which dogwood type is best for you.
Dogwood trees are prized for their beautiful spring blooms and attractive foliage. Two of the most popular varieties are the red dogwood (Cornus florida ‘Rubra’) and the pink dogwood (Cornus florida) At first glance, they may seem quite similar But when deciding between red and pink dogwood trees, there are some key differences to consider regarding flowers, growth habit, care needs, and overall landscape impact.
Flower Color
The most noticeable difference between red and pink dogwood varieties lies in the color of their bracts. The modified leaves surrounding the tiny flower clusters create the showy “petals” we admire.
The red dogwood has deep rosy red bracts ranging from ruby to raspberry pink in tone. Meanwhile, the pink dogwood has much softer, lighter pink bracts in subtle shades of baby pink, coral, and peach
When choosing based on flower color, think about what existing colors and plants you have in your yard. The bold ruby reds of the red dogwood make a dramatic statement and pair nicely with evergreens, white blooming shrubs, or perennials with silver/purple foliage. The pink dogwood’s subtler pinks blend in more softly and complement pastels, yellows, and white flowers.
Bloom Time
Both the red and pink dogwood bloom in spring usually mid to late April across most of their hardiness range. However the red dogwood variety tends to bloom slightly later, up to 2 weeks after the pink. This means the pink dogwood’s flowers are a bit more prone to damage from late frosts. But the red dogwood’s later bloom time extends the spring flowering display.
Growth Habit
In terms of growth rate, the red and pink dogwood are fairly similar, averaging about 1-2 feet of growth per year once established. Both trees reach a mature size of approximately 20-30 feet tall and wide in an oval to rounded shape.
However, the pink dogwood is often a bit larger and vigorous than the red. It also has a tendency for multiple trunks, while the red dogwood more commonly has a single trunk. So the pink dogwood takes up a bit more space.
Ornamental Features
Beyond spring flowers, dogwoods offer year-round appeal. Both the red and pink varieties produce vibrant red fruits beloved by birds in late summer through fall. They also have striking red to purplish fall leaf color. The red dogwood’s foliage takes on wine-red tones, while the pink dogwood is more fuchsia. Plus, both hold their leaves late into fall for maximum impact. Even in winter, the dogwood’s branching form and silhouette adds interest. The red dogwood’s branches take on a hint of red tint for added appeal.
Care Requirements
Fortunately, the care needs of red and pink dogwood trees are very similar. Here are some of their key requirements for optimal growth:
- Partial sun to light shade exposure
- Moist, well-draining, acidic soil
- Shelter from strong winds
- 2-4 inches of mulch around the base
- Pruning only when necessary for shape/health
- Avoiding fertilizer that can damage surface roots
Dogwoods also require attentive watering when newly planted since they have shallow root systems and don’t tolerate drought. Be sure to provide supplemental irrigation during dry periods. Additionally, scout regularly for common pests like borers, scale, and leaf spot fungus.
Hardiness Zone Range
The red and pink dogwood share an expansive hardiness range, enduring winters from USDA zones 5-9. This makes them suitable options for most regions besides the hottest and coldest.
However, the pink dogwood may struggle more with heat so choose the red dogwood for hotter zones like 8 and 9. For colder zones like 5 and 6, the red dogwood can be slightly less cold hardy than the pink.
Availability
Though considered Cornus florida varieties, red and pink dogwood trees are usually grafted when sold commercially since they don’t come true from seed. Luckily, both can be readily found at local nurseries carrying trees and shrubs. Online retailers also sell container-grown specimens if you can’t find what you want nearby. Expect to pay $50-150 depending on the size.
The Bottom Line
When deciding between red and pink dogwood trees, consider your zone, existing color scheme, and space limitations. The bold ruby reds of the red dogwood make a dramatic statement in the landscape. Meanwhile, the pink dogwood’s subtler blooms blend in more softly. Though quite similar, these key differences between the two popular varieties can help you choose the right one for your yard.
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Dogwood trees are easily recognizable and incredibly popular in the home landscape and for good reason. These beautiful trees are symbols of spring. They offer dazzling displays in both spring and fall. Enjoy attractive blooms in early or mid spring, depending on the variety, and amazing red autumn foliage. Flowering dogwood trees only reach about 15 to 25 feet tall with a similar spread so they are great for most front yards. They can grow in full sun or part shade. You have some different options when it comes to types of dogwood trees to plant in your yard. Let us help you determine which dogwood type is best for you.
How to Plant a Dogwood Tree
- Dig a hole about 2 times the width of the rootball/pot.
- Place your dogwood tree in the hole. Check visually from each side to be sure the trunk is straight before you backfill the soil.
- Use the soil you dug out to fill in around the rootball. Tap the soil down with your hands to help eliminate any air pockets.
- Water deeply until the ground is completely saturated.
- Sprinkle our balanced slow release fertilizer on the soil around your plant. Our coated fertilizer is safe for newly planted trees and will help boost your trees establishing roots.
- Add a 2 inch layer of mulch to protect the roots and reduce watering needs.
- Plan on a watering schedule for the first month or two. Water deeply with a hose at the base of your dogwood tree about 2 times per week.
5 Favorite Flowering Dogwood Trees | NatureHills.com
FAQ
What’s the prettiest dogwood tree?
Renowned for its beauty, Cornus kousa ‘Miss Satomi’ (Kousa Dogwood) is a medium-sized deciduous shrub that delights in every season. In spring, it showcases stunning deep pink bracts surrounding tiny yellowish-green flowers. Summer brings strawberry-like fruits, while fall displays vibrant red foliage.
What is the difference between pink dogwood and flowering dogwood?
A variety of the flowering dogwood, it shares many of its features including glossy red fruit that ripen in the fall, eye catching red or reddish-purple foliage. The Pink Dogwood, though, blooms with pink bracts and features dark green leaves that are oval or egg-shaped, tapering to a sharp point.
Is red dogwood fast growing?
Red dogwoods are a medium to fast growing tree. Expect a new growth gain of 13 to 24 inches per year, depending upon rainfall and soil quality.
Is pink dogwood a good tree?
The pink dogwood is a very popular landscape tree. In fact, millions of seedlings and budded trees are produced every year for commercial nurseries around the country. This is a good tree for planting near utility lines, next to buildings, or near patios.