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Description
Cornus Sericea Subsp. Occidentalis Sunshine, also known as Pacific Dogwood or Western Dogwood, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Cornaceae family. It is a native plant of Western North America, commonly found in wetlands, stream banks, and other moist areas. This plant has bright, yellow-green leaves that turn red in fall, with clusters of small white flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. The flowers are followed by white or blue berries that attract birds and other wildlife.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cornales |
| Family | Cornaceae |
| Genus | Cornus |
Appearance
Cornus Sericea Subsp. Occidentalis Sunshine can grow up to 10 feet tall and wide, with a dense, compact habit. The leaves are oval-shaped, 2-4 inches long, and have prominent veins. The bark is smooth and grayish-brown, with small, flat-topped clusters of white flowers that are about 2 inches wide. The flowers are followed by white or blue berries that are about 1/4 inch in diameter.
Care Guide
Cornus Sericea Subsp. Occidentalis Sunshine prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun. This plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-7 and requires moderate watering during the growing season. Fertilize once a year in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain the shape and remove any dead or damaged branches.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cornus Sericea Subsp. Occidentalis Sunshine is susceptible to leaf spot, twig blight, and powdery mildew. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant. This plant is also attractive to aphids and spider mites, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Cornus Sericea Subsp. Occidentalis Sunshine is native to Western North America, from Alaska to California, and can be found in wetlands, stream banks, and other moist areas. This plant is often used in wetland restoration projects and as a natural hedge or screen in landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cornus Sericea Subsp. Occidentalis Sunshine deer-resistant?
A: No, this plant is not deer-resistant.
Q: Can Cornus Sericea Subsp. Occidentalis Sunshine tolerate drought?
A: No, this plant prefers moist soil and does not tolerate drought well.
Q: How often should I prune Cornus Sericea Subsp. Occidentalis Sunshine?
A: Prune once a year in late winter or early spring to maintain the shape and remove any dead or damaged branches.
Q: Can I propagate Cornus Sericea Subsp. Occidentalis Sunshine by cuttings?
A: Yes, this plant can be propagated by hardwood cuttings in late fall or early winter.
Related Plants
- Cornus Alba ‘Sibirica’
- Cornus Florida
- Cornus Kousa
- Cornus Mas
References
- Bonner, F. T. (2008). Trees of North America: A guide to field identification. Globe Pequot.
- Cornus sericea L. subsp. occidentalis (Torr. & A. Gray) J.T. Howell, Pacific dogwood. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/shrub/corsero/all.html
- Cornus sericea subsp. occidentalis ‘Sunshine’ (Pacific dogwood). (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.greatplantpicks.org/plantlists/view/1332
