Also known as Grey Dogwood · Northern Swamp Dogwood · Panicled Dogwood
Gray Dogwood (Cornus racemosa) is a multi-stemmed shrub with fragrant white flowers, reddish-brown stems, and clusters of white berries, attractive to wildlife.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Part Shade
50% intensity
Thrives in full sun but tolerates partial shade. Full sun promotes best flowering and denser habit.
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers consistently moist soil, especially when young or during dry spells.
Loam, Clay, Sand
50% intensity
Hardy
25% intensity
Tolerates a wide range of temperatures and is cold-hardy. Protect from extreme heat in arid climates.
Low
25% intensity
Generally does not require heavy feeding; compost or light balanced fertilizer in spring is sufficient.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water consistently, especially during establishment and dry periods. Aim for evenly moist soil, but avoid waterlogged conditions. Reduce watering frequency in fall as the plant enters dormancy.
Check soil moisture with your finger; water when the top 2-3 cm feels dry.
Prune to maintain desired shape and size, and to remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. For best flowering and fruiting, prune in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.
Thin out older stems to encourage vigorous new shoots from the base.
Propagate by stem cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining potting mix. Keep moist and warm.
Division of suckers in early spring is also an effective method for this spreading shrub.
Repotting is generally not necessary for established landscape specimens. Container-grown plants can be repotted every 2-3 years in early spring, moving to a pot one size larger.
Use a well-draining potting mix and ensure good drainage holes in the container.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Gray Dogwood (Cornus racemosa)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cornales |
| Family | Cornaceae |
| Genus | Cornus |
| Species | Cornus racemosa |
Similar in genus Cornus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
