Eastern Dogwood
Nothing is more a symbol of Spring’s arrival than the prolific blooming of the Eastern Dogwood. Unfortunately in recent years, Eastern Dogwood has been afflicted with an introduced pathogen which causes some trees to lose branches to the point they ultimately die. Trees in sunnier locations appear to do better with forest trees experiencing the worst declines.
Some evidence suggests that cultivars like Cherokee Princess are more tolerant but more research needs to be done. We recommend you consider using the Eastern Dogwood in your garden but keep in mind this issue.
Kousa Dogwood
This Asian beauty is increasingly being used in the American Landscape. One of the primary differences of the Kousa as opposed to the Eastern Dogwood is the timing of the bloom cycle. Eastern Dogwood blooms appear before the leaves whereas Kousa Dogwoods leaf first and then bloom. Kousas also have orange colored fruit in the Fall season providing another element of beauty to the landscape. Kousa Dogwood is resistant to the Dogwood pathogen. In hotter areas, Kousas appreciate a bit more shade but will adapt to full sun.
Eastern Red Bud
The Eastern Red Bud is one of the first trees to bloom in the Eastern US in Spring. It is quickly followed by the American Dogwood which it is often used in combination with. Colors can vary somewhat from tree to tree making them an ideal choice for some variance in the landscape. Redbud must be moved during dormancy so plan ahead if you want to use this beauty in the landscape.