The Triangle
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 The Flowering Dogwood
Among spring-flowering trees, the dogwood is a North Carolina favorite in either natural woodland settings or in cultivated gardens. Often planted among rhododendrons, azaleas and flowering bulbs, dogwoods make excellent understory trees in a semi-shaded area. They grow to a height of 20 to 30 feet with a low, broad canopy and tiers of horizontal branches. The dogwood is considered a "well-behaved" tree and requires very little maintenance once established.
Dogwood flowers bloom before the tree's leaves appear. Blossoms seem to float along textured branches in an interesting cloud-like effect. In the fall, scarlet leaves are replaced with bright-red fruit which attract birds such as migrating robins, mockingbirds and cedar waxwings.
When planting dogwoods, be certain to provide good drainage. The most favorable soil is moist and slightly acidic. Once planted, do not cultivate deeply around the roots but add a light layer of pine straw or leaf mulch. Nursery grown trees which are adapted to sunlight are far superior to those transplanted from the woods. Be extremely careful when mowing around small dogwoods, as injured trees are susceptible to borers.
Dogwood trees grow wild throughout most of our state, especially in the mountains and foothills. A popular white cultivar is named "Cherokee Princess" and a spectacular pink is called "Red Cloud." In the Triangle, dogwood trees are just beginning to bloom now. If you are visiting soon, you are in for a treat, especially if you tour some older neighborhoods such as Hayes-Barton, Oakwood, Brookhaven, and areas near the universities.
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