Learn about the Pacific Dogwood:
🌳 Tree Details:
The Pacific dogwood (Cornus nuttallii) is a striking deciduous tree known for its elegant stature and seasonal transformations. It typically grows between 20 to 75 feet tall, with a growth form that varies based on sunlight exposure. In open areas, it sports a broad, expansive crown, while in shaded areas, it features a more upright, slender silhouette.
🔬 Scientific Name:
Cornus nuttallii
📏 Mature Spread:
The mature spread of the Pacific dogwood can range from 20 to 30 feet, providing a lush canopy of green in the summer and vibrant colors in the fall.
🌲 Where to Plant This Tree:
For residents of Victoria, B.C., the Pacific dogwood thrives best along streams or on gentle slopes with moist, well-drained soil. Consider planting this tree in areas with partial sun to mimic its natural habitat under forest canopies. Ensure the planting site has acidic soil rich in humus for optimal growth.
✨ Highlights:
The Pacific dogwood is not only beautiful—with its large, white bracts that mimic flowers and its bright, autumn foliage—but it also plays a crucial ecological role. It provides food and habitat for local wildlife and contributes to the forest’s biodiversity. Its ability to bloom twice a year, in spring and late summer, adds to its ornamental value, making it a cherished species in any landscape.
🌞 Sun Preference:
This tree prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun if the soil remains sufficiently moist. Its adaptability to light conditions makes it versatile for various landscaping projects.
🌱 Soil Preference:
Pacific dogwood favors acidic, well-drained soils rich in organic matter. It thrives in soils with high humus content and moderate to high nutrient levels, which are typical of its natural forested environments.
🐾 Wildlife Value:
The tree is a vital part of the local ecosystem, providing food and shelter for various species. Deer mice, woodpeckers, and even bears feast on its fruit, while its branches offer nesting sites for birds and shelter for small mammals.
📖 History/Lore:
Since 1956, the Pacific dogwood has been celebrated as the provincial flower of British Columbia, symbolizing the region’s natural beauty and ecological heritage. Named after English botanist Thomas Nuttall, this tree has a rich history both in nature and in human cultural appreciation.
learn more fascinating facts at VictoriaTrees.com/TreeFacts and explore how the Pacific dogwood and other trees enrich our local landscapes and ecosystems.
