The alternate-leaf dogwood (Cornus alternifolia) is a small flowering tree that grows 25-30 feet tall. It is named for its alternate arrangement of leaves, which differs from other dogwoods, which all have opposite leaves. The tree may also be referred to as the pagoda dogwood. This name describes the horizontal branching pattern of the tree,…
Known primarily for its spectacular spring floral display, the flowering dogwood (Cornus florida) shines as a small understory tree in the native landscape. Reaching up to 30 feet tall, this tree grows well in shade, but will flaunt even more white blossoms in full sun. Not only does this small tree provide interest in spring…
The American born botanist John Bartram discovered this unique understory tree in 1765 and named it in honor of Benjamin Franklin. The franklin tree (Franklinia alatamaha) was seen only along the bank of the Altamaha River in Georgia and today no longer exists in the wild. As the sightings of the Franklinia became more and…
The fringetree (Chionanthus virginicus) is a small tree or shrub ranging in height from 12 to 20 feet with an equal spread. The common name refers to the slightly fragrant, spring-blooming flowers which feature drooping clusters (4-6” long) of fringe-like, creamy white petals that appear from May to June. It is dioecious (meaning separate male…
The sweetbay magnolia (Magnolia virginiana) is a graceful, southern evergreen to semi-evergreen tree. It will tend to be more evergreen the farther south it is planted. In nature, it is found most often in moist, acid soils near swamps or stream banks in the eastern United States. It is a small, typically multi-stemmed tree, columnar…