Alternate leaf dogwood (Cornus alternifolia), aka Pagoda dogwood, is a small native deciduous tree or large multi-stemmed shrub (USDA hardiness zones 3-8). This U.S. native species is indigenous to central and eastern Canada and central and the eastern and central areas of the U.S.

Pagoda dogwood typically grows 15-25 feet high with distinctive tiered/layered horizontal branching. The parallel horizontal branching creates a layered tiered look, a term called “sympodial branching”. Branches and leaves are arranged alternately, a unique trait found in only one other dogwood species, giant dogwood (C. controversa).

Golden Shadows^® is a wonderful pagoda dogwood cultivar noted for its distinctive color and elegant horizontal habit. Leaves are gloriously variegated — bright yellow with a bright green splotch in the leaf center. Occasionally, leaves may burn, particularly in full sun; leaf colors may fade under too much shade.

Small, fragrant, yellowish-white flowers bloom in flattened cymes (each to 2 1/2″ across) in late spring (May-June). Flowers give way to bluish-black fruits (drupes) on red stalks that ripen in late summer. Elliptic-ovate, medium green leaves, up to 3-5” long, turn reddish-purple often tinted yellow or green in fall. Bluish-black drupe fruits develop in mid-summer on orangish-red stems

Pagoda dogwood is best grown in part-day sun, preferably in the morning hours. Leaves of this shade dogwood” can become sunscald. This large shrub/ small tree prefers acidic, rich loamy, moist, and well-drained soils. It has a fibrous, spreading root system and prefers a site where its shallow root zone will be cool. Don’t forget to apply 2-3 inches of mulch at the start of spring. 

In most years alternate-leaf dogwood avoids serious diseases or insect issues.  However, be observant of septoria leaf spot, twig and leaf blights, root rot and canker that may lead to early defoliation in autumn. Scale, leaf miner and borers are occasional insect pests. Protect against wind and ice damage and tree roots may not tolerate salt injury.

Plant as a specimen or in small groupings on residential property around shady decks and patios. Utilize in shade borders, woodland gardens, and naturalized areas.

Pagoda dogwood is a wonderful native plant with four-season interest. Butterflies, birds, and small mammals are attracted to this shrub, and this dogwood species is also moderately deer resistant. Utilize in your home garden as a specimen plant, shrub border, or in naturalized areas.

Most garden centers do not offer this shrub/tree for sale. Online nurseries do advertise it. Proven Winners (PW) does list it.