Dogwoods

The underlying rosy hue of dogwood branches provides bright landscape color through even the most severe Minnesota winter. The extensive root system tolerates poorly drained soil, and can be useful for erosion control. Small white flowers appear in June, followed by white berries that many birds and other wildlife find appealing.

The newest variety, 'Garden Glow' (TM), adds chartreuse foliage to a shady landscape. 'Cardinal' was introduced for its vivid red winter twig color. 'Isanti' is a slower growing selection of native dogwood. 'Garden Glow' (TM) performs best in filtered sunlight or where it receives protection from the afternoon sun. 'Cardinal' and 'Isanti' grow well in full sun or partial shade.

Only at the U

Pagoda or Alternate leaf dogwood is a Minnesota native. Creamy white blossoms on horizontal branches light up the woods in May, and lead to attractive blue fruits in the fall. Unfortunately the trees are highly susceptible to Cryptodiaporthe canker, a problem identified more than a century ago. Trees rarely attain a trunk diameter greater than 4" before the tree succumbs. U of M researchers collected canker samples from around the state and seeds from hardy trees across Minnesota. Challenging new seedlings with the disease is the first step to breed a more resistant cultivar. In the process, breeders will select for improved fall color, richer and varied flower color, and larger flower size.