Creeping Dogwood

from $12.00

Creeping Dogwood (Cornus canadensis) is a charming, low-growing native groundcover prized for its lush green foliage, delicate white flowers in spring, and bright red berries in late summer. Ideal for shady woodland gardens, underplantings, and naturalized areas, this spreading perennial forms a dense mat that helps suppress weeds and retain soil moisture. It thrives in cool, moist, well-drained soils and adds seasonal interest with its subtle fall color. Sold as healthy plugs, Creeping Dogwood is a great choice for eco-friendly landscapes and native plant enthusiasts looking to add beauty and biodiversity to their gardens.

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Creeping Dogwood (Cornus canadensis) is a charming, low-growing native groundcover prized for its lush green foliage, delicate white flowers in spring, and bright red berries in late summer. Ideal for shady woodland gardens, underplantings, and naturalized areas, this spreading perennial forms a dense mat that helps suppress weeds and retain soil moisture. It thrives in cool, moist, well-drained soils and adds seasonal interest with its subtle fall color. Sold as healthy plugs, Creeping Dogwood is a great choice for eco-friendly landscapes and native plant enthusiasts looking to add beauty and biodiversity to their gardens.

How to Care for Creeping Dogwood (Cornus canadensis)

How to Plant:

  • Dig a hole twice as wide and the same depth as the root ball.

  • Gently remove the plant from its container and loosen the roots if compacted.

  • Place the root ball level with the soil surface.

  • Backfill with a mix of native soil and organic compost, then press gently to settle.

  • Water thoroughly after planting and apply 1–2 inches of mulch, keeping it away from the stem.

Where to Plant:

  • Best planted in part shade to full shade locations.

  • Thrives in cool, moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.

  • Excellent as a groundcover in woodland gardens, shaded borders, or under taller trees.

  • Space plants 12–18 inches apart to allow spreading by rhizomes.

Watering:

  • Water deeply 2–3 times per week during establishment.

  • Keep the soil evenly moist—avoid letting it dry out completely.

  • Once established, water during dry spells or hot periods to prevent stress.

Maintenance:

  • Apply a light compost or organic mulch in early spring to enrich soil.

  • No routine pruning needed—remove only dead or damaged foliage.

  • Creeping Dogwood is low maintenance once established, but benefits from consistent moisture.

  • Watch for signs of heat stress in full sun; this plant prefers cooler, shaded spots.