shrub

Summer Gold Flowering Dogwood

Cornus florida 'Summer Gold'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

36 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Decades

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Cornus florida 'Summer Gold' is a deciduous flowering tree known for its vibrant yellow autumn foliage, with clusters of white flowers in spring and attractive bark that adds winter interest. This cultivar is distinguished by its striking golden-yellow leaves that provide a luminous display during the fall, making it a standout specimen in ornamental gardens.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

The vibrant yellow foliage provides stunning visual interest throughout the growing season, brightening garden borders and landscapes.

Serves as an effective hedge or screen, offering privacy and defining garden spaces.

Provides food and habitat for birds and beneficial insects, supporting local biodiversity.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck young plants into well-draining soil in spring.
Water regularly to establish roots during first year.
Prune lightly in late winter to shape plant.
Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize in early spring with balanced fertilizer.
Monitor for pests and treat organically if needed.

Pro Tip

Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil for best color display.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently during dry periods 🌱
Prune after flowering to maintain shape
Apply mulch annually to conserve moisture

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t fertilize late in the season
Do not prune in late fall

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Mulch
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid yellow hedgeColorful shrub border

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Azaleas Hydrangeas Japanese Maples

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Summer Gold Flowering Dogwood questions

What zones can Summer Gold Flowering Dogwood grow in?

Summer Gold Flowering Dogwood is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Summer Gold Flowering Dogwood deer resistant?

Yes — Summer Gold Flowering Dogwood is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Summer Gold Flowering Dogwood bloom?

Summer Gold Flowering Dogwood typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Summer Gold Flowering Dogwood need full sun?

Summer Gold Flowering Dogwood does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Summer Gold Flowering Dogwood drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Summer Gold Flowering Dogwood handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.