Flowering Dogwood is a staple of the mid-Atlantic garden, so add a little twist with 'Comco No. 1'. While it's not the most evocative cultivar name, come spring, this small tree says everything the name doesn't. With deep pinkish-red bracts that fade to white in the center, this selection stands apart and adds beautiful texture and color before any leaves emerge. As autumn passes, the canopy turns a brilliant burgundy with branches tipped by bright red fruits that are beloved by birds.
Conditions: Full sun to part shade; medium to moist soil
Size: 15' - 30' tall, 25' - 30' spread
Zone: 5 - 9
Wildlife Value: Flowers attract a variety of small bees and flower flies; fruits enjoyed by songbirds and small mammals; larval host for 120 moths and butterfly species
Photos: Dave Korbonits, Samantha Nestory