Choosing a True White Flowering Dogwood

Why Nursery Dogwoods Look Off-White

Many Cornus florida cultivars sold as "white" (including 'Cherokee Princess') produce creamy or pale yellow-tinged bracts, especially in cooler springs or partial shade. True pure white is rare in this species.

Better Alternative: Kousa Dogwood

Cornus kousa (Kousa dogwood) offers:

• Bright white, pointed bracts that open after leaves emerge (late May–June)
• Superior resistance to dogwood anthracnose
• Attractive red raspberry-like fruit and red fall foliage
• Better tolerance of full sun and varied soils

Selection Tips

1. Buy in bloom to verify bract color.
2. Choose disease-resistant cultivars: 'Milky Way', 'Satomi' (pink), 'National'.
3. Plant in well-drained, acidic soil with morning sun and afternoon shade.

Reference

USDA Forest Service dogwood guide: Dogwood Anthracnose.