Mountain Dogwood
Cornus nuttallii
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Pl. F4C8 — Cornus nuttallii
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IOverview
Overview
Mountain Dogwood (Cornus nuttallii) is a deciduous tree native to the Pacific Northwest of North America, ranging from British Columbia to California and extending into Idaho and Washington. Known for its ornamental value and edible fruit, this plant thrives in light to partial shade with moist or dry conditions, preferring soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It can grow up to 10 meters tall and is hardy in zones 6-8. One distinctive feature of the Mountain Dogwood is its white flowers that appear in spring, followed by small red berries that ripen in late summer, making it a valuable food source for wildlife and humans alike.
Quick answers
What is Mountain Dogwood?
Mountain Dogwood (Cornus nuttallii) is a deciduous tree native to the Pacific Northwest of North America, ranging from British Columbia to California and extending into Idaho and Washington.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Mountain Dogwood thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist to dry conditions, with a soil type that can range from light (sandy) to heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 6-8 and grows up to 10 meters tall. The tree adapts well to a pH between 4.9 and 7.3. For propagation, it can be grown from seeds or cuttings. Harvest the fruit for edible use.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
6-8
Habit
Tree
Mature size
10.0 m tall
Soil pH
4.9–7.3
For first-time growers
How to grow Mountain Dogwood for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Mountain Dogwood in a well-prepared site for the best beginner experience.
- 1
What you'll need
Mountain Dogwood saplings, garden gloves, spade or shovel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late fall when temperatures are cooler.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining with a pH between 4.9 and 7.3; amend as needed.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant saplings into prepared holes, ensuring roots are spread out.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged; mulch around the base.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide partial sun or full sun with regular watering during dry spells.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter before new growth starts to maintain shape and remove dead branches.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil, neglecting winter protection, improper pruning timing, not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The Mountain Dogwood's fruit is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. Typically, the berries are harvested when ripe and enjoyed fresh, though they can also be dried for later use.
Other uses:Weaving materialDyeTanninLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
5 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
5 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 5 native
Broader regions
native:British Columbia, California, Idaho, Oregon, Washington
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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