A Proven Winners® ColorChoice® Flowering Trees variety, Cornus Golden Shadows® Pagoda Dogwood is a small native understory tree offering year-round interest, grown for its elegant architecture, distinctive variegated foliage, and attractive flowers. A strong structure of gracefully tiered, horizontal branching gives this plant year-round appeal. Large and brilliantly colored, the heart-shaped, bright yellow leaves have an irregular center splotch of emerald green, with new growth flushing reddish orange in cool weather. Fragrant clusters of lacy white blossoms appear on old wood and attract pollinators. Bluish black fruits (drupes) follow in midsummer, supporting songbirds.
A Cornus alternifolia, syn Swida alternifolia species, commonly called pagoda dogwood or alternate-leaf dogwood, Golden Shadows has an upright, vase-shaped habit and a vigorous growth rate. Pagoda dogwoods make especially lovely specimens but are highly adaptable to many landscape applications and are stunning when grouped or massed.
Cold hardy to Zone 3, pagoda dogwood grows best in dappled shade locations with organically rich, moist, well-draining soil having an acidic pH. It prefers cool summer climates.
A native tree, pagoda dogwood is indigenous to North America. Native plants are not only beautiful but also environmentally friendly. Naturally adapted to the climate and soil conditions of the region, they thrive without fertilizers or extra watering, once established. They also act as natural pest controls, reducing the need for pesticides in the garden. Landscaping with native plants promotes biodiversity and provides shelter and quality food for wildlife and pollinators, bringing gardens to life.
