WHAT: Pagoda dogwood, also known as cornus alternifolia, sports white flower clusters in late spring, followed by fruits that offer a kaleidoscope of colors, starting out green, then quickly turning a soft reddish tone and then finally becoming their trademark blue-black.
Long after its fruits are gobbled up by birds, this tree’s flower stalks retain a bright coral color.
Its leaves, which are resistant to the common disease known as dogwood anthracnose, turn a rich burgundy in the fall.
SUN OR SHADE: It can take full sun in Puget Sound region gardens, but requires partial shade where the days are particularly hot and dry.
SIZE: This tree, which can reach 25 feet tall at maturity, is considered a small tree. It also can be used in the landscape as a large shrub.
SEE IT: You can find this tree at the Evergreen Arboretum & Gardens — 145 Alverson Blvd., Everett; www.evergreenarboretum.com; 425-257-8597 — in the urban tree walk on the west side of the arboretum parking lot.
Source: Sandra Schumacher/Evergreen Arboretum & Gardens Foundation
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