Cornus drummondii, commonly known as Roughleaf Dogwood, is a deciduous shrub native to North America. It typically reaches a height of 10-15 feet and spreads 8-12 feet wide. The plant has an upright growth habit with multiple stems and branches forming an open crown.
The leaves of Cornus drummondii are simple, opposite, and ovate with rough surfaces. They are dark green during the summer but turn reddish-purple in the fall before dropping off for winter.
Roughleaf Dogwood blooms from May to June with small clusters of white flowers that attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. In late summer, the plant produces small blue-black berries that are a favorite of birds.
Cornus drummondii prefers moist soils but can tolerate drought conditions once established. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and can be used for erosion control or as a specimen plant in gardens or natural areas.
Overall, Cornus drummondii is an attractive shrub that offers year-round interest with its unique foliage coloration, showy flowers, and fruit production. Additionally, it serves important ecological functions by providing food for wildlife species such as birds.
Roughleaf dogwood is characterized by its oval leaves, which are rough and hairy on the upper surface and soft and hairy on the underside. In the fall, these leaves turn a purplish-red color, giving the plant its name, "roughleaf dogwood."
Roughleaf dogwood is resistant to disease and is generally not vulnerable to illnesses. In terms of maintenance, this plant is fairly low-maintenance. When planted outdoors it needs only minimal watering, and larger plants typically do not require pruning. Smaller plants, however, should be pruned after they have finished blooming. Roughleaf dogwood is a good option for anyone with an outdoor area, such as a garden or deck, and does not demand extensive care experience.
How to keep Cornus Drummondii.
Light
Roughleaf dogwood does best in spots that receive moderate sun through the day, but it can also tolerate locations with full sun. Although it comes from habitats with filtered light, exposure to too much or too little sun can impede its healthy growth.
Water
Roughleaf dogwood thrives in its native environment, displaying a moderate tolerance for drought while preferring consistent moisture. To promote healthy foliage and flowering, water your roughleaf dogwood every 1 to 2 weeks, especially during its peak growing seasons. This plant is typically cultivated outdoors, and both its size and deciduous nature affect its watering requirements.
Temperature
In its native habitat, roughleaf dogwood thrives in temperatures between 59 to 95 ℉ (15 to 35 ℃). In summer it can tolerate highs up to 95 ℉ (35 ℃) but prefers cooler conditions. In winter it can survive temperatures as low as -15 ℉ (-26 ℃), though it is recommended to protect it from extreme cold. In fall it needs temperatures of 50 to 70 ℉ (10 to 21 ℃) to achieve the best foliage color.
Fertilizer
Fertilize your Roughleaf dogwood in early spring to encourage healthy growth. Regular feeding boosts the plant's overall vigor, leading to stronger growth, increased tolerance of difficult conditions, and enhanced resistance to pests and diseases. Follow a consistent fertilization schedule for your Roughleaf dogwood to maintain vivid foliage with rich color and a lush appearance.
Pruning
The Roughleaf dogwood is characterized by its rough leaves and clusters of white flowers. Pruning in early spring has several benefits: it removes dead branches, promotes healthy growth, and helps prevent disease. Make sure to use clean, sharp tools to make precise cuts just above the leaf nodes. Regular pruning improves air circulation and encourages robust flowering, which ensures quick healing and vibrant new growth.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Tree
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Cornus
- Family
- Cornaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 7-9
- Mature Height
- 1.83 m to 4.57 m
- Mature Spread
- 3.05 m to 4.57 m
- Leaf Color
- Green, Red, Purple
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
- Flower Color
- White
- Flower Size
- 2.54 cm
- Bloom Time
- Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer
- Planting Time
- Winter
- Harvest Time
- Mid summer
Other names.
Reader questions.
What is the best way to water my Roughleaf dogwood?
To promote excellent root development, place a garden hose at the base of the plant. Avoid spraying the leaves directly. If the plant is outdoors and exposed to direct sunlight, the leaves will need more water. You can use bubblers or soaker hoses to moisten the roots. Soaker hoses are particularly useful when adding or removing plants, as they can cover the entire garden or bed and push the roots deep into the soil. Make sure to drain any excess water and wait for the soil to dry before watering again. Watering at ground level is recommended to prevent diseases. On sunny days, consider spraying the entire bush with water. Whether in a pot or in the ground, keep in mind that Roughleaf dogwood plants prefer deep watering instead of light sprinkling.
Why should I add fertilizer to my Roughleaf dogwood?
To ensure your Roughleaf dogwood thrives, regardless of the variety, regular fertilization is key. Providing the proper nutrients will promote stronger growth and increase its ability to withstand harsh conditions, as well as ward off diseases and pests. The foliage of your Roughleaf dogwood is particularly appealing, so it's important to maintain it. This involves following a specific fertilization schedule tailored to your Roughleaf dogwood's needs, resulting in vibrant, lush leaves.
How much sunlight does Roughleaf dogwood need to grow?
To ensure the optimal growth of Roughleaf dogwood, it typically requires 3-6 hours of direct sunlight daily. However, it is crucial to provide some shade during the hottest times to prevent damage from excessive sun exposure. Ideally, roughleaf dogwood thrives with morning sunlight, but it can also tolerate some afternoon sun if the temperature is not too high. For the perfect balance, consider planting it in an area that receives partial sun, such as beneath a tree or on the east side of a building.
What temperature is best for Roughleaf dogwood?
The ideal temperature range for Roughleaf dogwood to thrive is between 65 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 27 degrees Celsius). During the main growing phase, the highest tolerable temperature would be 95 degrees Fahrenheit (35 degrees Celsius), while the lowest tolerable temperature would be 15 degrees Fahrenheit (-10 degrees Celsius). This species can withstand freezing winters and is tolerant of low temperatures. To summarize, the recommended temperature range for Roughleaf dogwood is: Perfect: 65-80°F (18-27°C), Highest: 85-95°F (30-35°C), Lowest: -5-15°F (-20 to -10°C) or lower.
What should I do if I give Roughleaf dogwood too much water or too little water?
An overwatered Roughleaf dogwood can show signs of yellowing, dropping leaves, and wilting. It may also appear dull and unhealthy, with mushy stems. To address these signs, adjust your watering schedule if possible. However, wilting can also indicate under watering, which causes crisp and dry leaves. When the soil is dry and watering is insufficient, provide a thorough watering. While enough water will help the Roughleaf dogwood recover, it may still have dry, yellow leaves due to root damage. Once the plant returns to normal, the yellowing of leaves will cease. For indoor Roughleaf dogwoods, check the moisture levels in the pot and avoid overwatering. Look out for signs of black spots, and if present, let the soil dry by withholding water for a few days. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so consider transferring the plant to a different pot if you observe discolored and slimy roots. Always take preventative measures to avoid root rot and ensure the soil does not become overly soggy. When planting Roughleaf dogwoods outdoors, dig a little deeper and if the soil feels too dry, it may indicate underwatering. Adequate watering is necessary for the plant's recovery.
What is the best time to add fertilizer to my Roughleaf dogwood plant?
To ensure healthy growth, fertilize your Roughleaf dogwood for the first time in late winter or early spring. This provides the necessary nutrients to support growth when the weather warms up. If you live in a warm climate region, it's beneficial to give your Roughleaf dogwood another fertilizer feeding in early fall. This replenishes nutrients for the following growing season and helps the tree withstand winter cold without foliage damage. Fertilizing earlier in the year ensures that new branches have enough time to strengthen before winter.
If Roughleaf dogwood doesn't get enough sunlight, what will happen?
Roughleaf dogwood can experience sun damage if exposed to excessive direct sunlight. This may cause the leaves to turn yellow, dry out, or even burn. Additionally, you may observe wilting or stunted growth in the plant. To avoid sun damage, it is important to provide some shade for the Roughleaf dogwood during the hottest times of the day. This can be accomplished by using a shade cloth or planting the dogwood near taller plants that can offer natural shade.
Should I change the temperature for Roughleaf dogwood as it grows?
Research suggests that Roughleaf dogwood may show signs of stunted growth when exposed to prolonged high temperatures, particularly during the development of axillary buds and main shoots. To promote robust growth after germination or transplanting, it is recommended to maintain consistent and cooler temperatures around 65℉ (18℃).
How often should I give water to my Roughleaf dogwood?
The Roughleaf dogwood prefers deep and infrequent watering, especially when planted in pots. The limited water storage in pots causes the soil to dry out quickly, so it is important to soak them with a gallon of water each time. In cold regions, watering is needed every 3 to 5 days. It is best to water early in the morning when the soil is dry, both indoors and outdoors. To determine if watering is necessary, check the top 2-3 inches of soil. If it is dry, the plant needs a full watering. During hot days, check the soil moisture daily as heat can rapidly dry out the soil in pots. If you have a garden, irrigation of the soil is necessary as well. In hot climates, it may be sufficient to water once a week. Only water when the top 2-3 inches of soil are too dry, whether indoors or outdoors. Consider the amount of rainfall and avoid watering if the plants have received sufficient water naturally to prevent root rot. Roughleaf dogwood typically grows during spring and fall. Use mulch about 3 to 4 inches deep when plants are outdoors to conserve water. In sandy soil, plants will require more frequent watering as it drains faster. On the other hand, clay soil requires less frequent watering, with intervals of 2-3 days to allow the plant to dry out and prevent root rot. Keep track of the watering dates on a calendar and pay attention to the drooping leaves, as this may indicate a need for water.
When is the best time to not fertilize my Roughleaf dogwood?
Avoid fertilizing your Roughleaf dogwood during specific times of the year. Firstly, refrain from fertilizing during the early and mid-winter months when the plant is dormant and does not require nourishment. Additionally, it is not advisable to fertilize during the late spring and summer. These seasons tend to be hotter and drier, which can have a detrimental effect on the Roughleaf dogwood if fertilized. To prevent any problems, follow a fertilization schedule that includes feeding only in early spring and early fall.
What will happen if the Roughleaf dogwood gets too much sunlight?
If Roughleaf dogwood doesn't receive sufficient sunlight, it may become tall and thin, with few leaves. Additionally, the leaves may change color to yellow or pale green, which suggests that the plant is not producing enough chlorophyll due to the lack of sunlight. To address this issue, you can attempt relocating Roughleaf dogwood to a sunnier area or trim nearby foliage to provide the plant with more light.
How can I make sure Roughleaf dogwood stays warm during cold seasons?
Roughleaf dogwood is able to tolerate freezing temperatures if planted in the ground, as long as the temperature doesn't drop below 15℉(-10℃) during the winter months. However, if it is planted in a pot or container, extra care is needed to protect its roots from the cold. This can be done by wrapping the container in a blanket or bringing it indoors for full protection from the elements.
