June Snow giant dogwood

Cornus controversa 'June Snow'

Description:
A unique tree with a horizontal branching structure. Flat topped clusters of small creamy white flowers that cover the tree like snow in June yield blue-black fruit clusters in the fall. Dark green leaves turn to a brilliant range of orange through burgundy in the fall.

Power Line Approved: No

Min. street tree planting width: 6 feet

Mature Height: 35-40 feet

Mature Spread: 30-35 feet

Tree Shape: Horizontally layered, spreading. Will grow taller in shady conditions.

Where to Plant:
A great garden specimen or in a wide, partly sunny planting strip with no overhead wires.   

Leaves:
Dark green above and light green below with parallel venation. They turn lovely shades of orange to burgundy in the fall.

Flowers:
Flat topped clusters of small creamy white flowers in June.

Fruit:
Clusters of ¼" blue-black berries enjoyed by wildlife.

Preferred Site Conditions:
Part sun to light or open shade. Moist but well drained soil.

Potential Problems:
No serious insect or disease problems.

Minimum Planting Distances:

  • 15 feet from house or building
  • 3 ½ feet back from the face of the curb
  • 5 feet from underground utility lines
  • 10 feet from power poles
  • 7 ½ feet from driveways (10 feet recommended)
  • 20 feet from street lights and other existing trees
  • 30 feet from street intersections

Additional Resources