White DogwoodCornus florida

The white dogwood grows to a height of around 25' and a spread of around 25' at maturity.

The white dogwood is very versatile—growing in acidic, loamy, moist, rich, sandy, well-drained and clay soils. It prefers moist conditions.

• Blooms April–May, with distinctive white bracts (modified leaves) surrounding a smaller insignificant flower.
• Produces glossy red fruit eaten by birds.
• Provides great fall color, with leaves turning red-purple.
• Grows in a rounded shape.
• Is a good choice for planting near utility lines, larger buildings or patios.
• Features dark green leaves that are 4–8" long and oval or ovate in shape.

The seed, fruit, flowers, twigs, bark and leaves are all used as food by various animals. At least 36 species of birds—including ruffed grouse, bobwhite quail and wild turkey—are known to eat the fruit. Chipmunks, foxes, squirrels, skunks, rabbits, deer, beaver, black bear and other mammals also eat the fruit. Foliage and twigs are browsed heavily by deer and rabbits.

Native from Massachusetts to Florida and west to Texas, this tree was cultivated in 1731. A favorite in America for centuries, both George Washington and Thomas Jefferson planted it on their plantations. Early Native Americans made medicinal teas from its bark, and desperate Civil War doctors used this tea as a quinine substitute. The wood is extremely hard and has been used for weaver's shuttles, chisel and maul handles, golf club heads and yokes.

It is the state tree of Missouri and Virginia.