Rainbow Flowering Dogwood

Rainbow Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida ‘Rainbow’) is a small ornamental tree valued for its showy spring bracts and vibrant fall foliage. In mid-spring, clusters of white to pale pink bracts surround inconspicuous yellow flowers, creating a striking canopy effect. Dark green leaves mature in summer before turning shades of burgundy-red in autumn. This cultivar thrives in well-drained, acidic soils under full sun to part shade and adds year-round interest to woodland borders, foundation plantings and mixed shrub beds.

Key Features
• Botanical name: Cornus florida ‘Rainbow’
• Common name: Rainbow Flowering Dogwood
• Hardiness zones: Canada Zone 5–7
• Exposure: Full sun to part shade
• Soil: Rich, well-drained, slightly acidic soils
• Water needs: Moderate; consistent moisture especially during establishment
• Size at maturity: 4–5 m tall × 4–5 m wide (approx. 13–16 ft × 13–16 ft)
• Shape: Rounded crown
• Foliage: Dark green turning burgundy-red in fall
• Flower colour: White to pale pink bracts
• Bloom time: Mid to late spring
• Maintenance: Low; prune lightly after flowering to maintain form
• Advantages: Spring and fall interest; wildlife food source; compact habit for small landscapes