Cornus alternifolia (Alternate-leaved Dogwood or Pagoda Dogwood)

$4.75$12.00

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Description

Cornus alternifolia (Alternate-leaved Dogwood or Pagoda Dogwood) Seeds

Zone: 3 to 7.

Native to northeastern North America.

The Alternate-leaved Dogwood or Pagoda Dogwood is a small deciduous understory tree or or large multi-stemmed shrub growing in forests, woodland edges and along stream banks, in soil that is acidic, organically rich and moist.  A distinctive, ornamental feature of this tree is the horizontal branching which provides a unique layered appearance, hence the common name pagoda.

Foliage consists of elliptic-ovate, medium green leaves 3 to 5 inches (7 to 12 cm) long. The underside of the leaves is paler and duller. Although the leaves of most species of dogwood are opposite, those of pagoda dogwood are alternate, which is why it is also commonly know as the alternate-leaf dogwood. Autumn colour can vary between red, purple and yellow. It bears showy clumps of white flowers followed by dark purple, berry-like fruit.

It is desirable as a specimen planting on a residential property, woodland gardens and for naturalizing landscapes. It does well in full sun or part shade.

Size: Height 15 to 25 ft; Width 15 to 25 ft.

Soak seeds for 24 hours and drain.

Germination Instructions

Stratification: Seed requires 60 days warm stratification followed by 60 to 90 days cold moist stratification at 3° C (37° F) to 5° C (41° F).

  1. Soak seeds in water for 24 hours.
  2. Place seeds in sandwich bag(s), with a bit of damp sand or vermiculite to keep moist.
  3. Keep at room temperature for about 60 days. Occasionally lightly spray water to keep seeds and sand moist.
  4. Place the bag(s) with seeds in refrigerator for about 60 to 90 days.
  5. After the required time take the seeds out of the refrigerator and sow the seeds in pots 3/8 inch deep and cover lightly. Water gently so as not to wash away the seeds. Keep soil moist but not wet.