red-flowered dogwood

Cornus florida f. rubra
Cornus florida f. rubra is a beautiful ornamental tree with distinctive pink flowers that thrives in various environments. The following describes the plant's growth characteristics, propagation methods, cultivation techniques, garden uses, and major pests and diseases, as well as control methods.

Growth Characteristics
- Size and Shape: Mature Cornus generally grow to a height of 4 to 6 meters and form a broad, rounded shape.
- Flowers: It blooms with large pink or light pink flowers in the spring, making it very popular in gardens due to its showy appearance.
- Leaves: The leaves are oval-shaped and are characterized by turning red in the autumn.
- Habitat: It grows well in a variety of locations ranging from full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soil.

Propagation Methods
- Seed Propagation: Seeds can be collected from mature fruits and planted, but germination rates are low and the process may take a long time. - Cuttings: Rooting is generally successful when taking cuttings from semi-hardwood stems during the summer.

Cultivation Methods
- Planting: Plant in well-drained and well-ventilated soil; it is recommended to mix in sufficient organic matter before planting.
- Watering: After initial planting, water periodically to allow roots to establish, but be careful not to overwater thereafter.
- Fertilizer: Apply slow-release fertilizer in spring and autumn to promote growth.

Uses in the Garden
- It has high value as a boundary tree or a solitary plant, and the blooming flowers and changing foliage provide a sense of seasonality.
- It is possible to create color contrast by placing it alongside other plants or to add variety by mixing individual varieties.

Important Pests and Diseases & Control Methods
- Diseases: Anthracnose and gray mold are common diseases. Preventive control is important for these diseases, and appropriate pesticides should be used if they occur. - Pests: Aphids and leaf beetles are the most common pests; they can be controlled using appropriate insecticides if necessary.
- Regular pruning and maintaining a clean growing environment can prevent pests and diseases.

The flowering dogwood (Cornus florida f. rubra) is a plant that can provide beauty in the garden for a long time if properly cared for. We hope you grow it healthily with proper care and attention.
Plant Family	Cornaceae
Height	4.5~9m
Spread	4.5~9m
Colors	pink
Bloom Period	March to August
Water Needs	commonly
Exposure	Sunny
Freezing Resistance	-30°C
evergreen dogwood
Cornus capitata
flowering dogwood
Cornus florida