Gray Dogwood (Cornus racemosa)-Hort Answers - University of Illinois Extension
University of Illinois Extension

University of Illinois Extension

Hort Answers

Shrub

Gray Dogwood
Cornus racemosa

Gray Dogwood leaves
Gray Dogwood leaves
 
Features
Creamy white flowers in clusters in late spring; bluish white fruit in late summer (eaten quickly by birds); bright red fruit stalks remain after fruit is gone; autumn color is purple. 
 
Culture
Full sun to shade; prefers a moist, well-drained soil, but tolerates wet and dry sites; tolerates alkaline soil. 
 
Cultivars
 
 
Mature Height
10-12 Feet
 
Size
Medium
 
 
Mature Width
10-12 Feet (or wider, due to suckering)
 
Mature Form
Rounded to broad rounded, suckers to form colonies 
 
Native To:
United States (and Illinois) 
 
USDA Hardiness Zone
4 - 8 
 
Soil Conditions
Dry
Moist, Well-Drained
Wet
 
 
Tolerance
Alkaline Soil
Dry Sites
Wet Sites
Wind
 
 
Exposure/Light Requirements
Full Shade
Full Sun
Partial Sun/Shade
 
 
Uses
Massing
Naturalizing
Screen
 
 
Foliage Color
Green
 
 
Fall Foliage Color
Purple
 
 
Pests and Problems

Environmental Damage

Fungal Disease


Additional pests and problems that may affect this plant:

This shrub has potential to form thickets and pruning may be needed to keep a desirable shape.
 
Additional Notes

 

 
Related Resources
Home, Yard & Garden Pest Guide
Illinois Commercial Landscape and Turfgrass Pest Management Handbook
U of IL - Distance Diagnosis through Digital Imaging
U of IL - Plant Clinic