Dogwoods are an iconic group of trees much beloved for their display of white flowers in spring. Though often used as a symbol of the South, they are also quite popular here in Sacramento. There are around 80 species in this genus, but only a few are commonly seen in Sacramento.
The most commonly planted locally is Cornus florida, usually called the flowering dogwood. Cornus kousa, the kousa dogwood can also be seen occasionally. While there are also several native dogwoods, they are trees of cool, shady areas of the mountains and generally don't thrive in the valley.
Dogwoods prefer shade, being understory trees in nature. The species grown here can be a nice accent in well-maintained gardens with other large trees but certainly don't thrive on their own.
The most commonly planted locally is Cornus florida, usually called the flowering dogwood. Cornus kousa, the kousa dogwood can also be seen occasionally. While there are also several native dogwoods, they are trees of cool, shady areas of the mountains and generally don't thrive in the valley.
Dogwoods prefer shade, being understory trees in nature. The species grown here can be a nice accent in well-maintained gardens with other large trees but certainly don't thrive on their own.