Origin of Cornus alba L. var. occidentalis (Torr. & Gray) Boivin
Cornus alba L. var. occidentalis (Torr. & Gray) Boivin, commonly known as Western Dogwood, is native to North America. It is found in various regions of North America, such as the Pacific Northwest, Alaska, and the Rocky Mountains.
Common Names of Cornus alba L. var. occidentalis (Torr. & Gray) Boivin
The common names of Cornus alba L. var. occidentalis include Western Dogwood, Red-stemmed Dogwood, and Redtwig Dogwood, referring to the plant's striking red stems and bark.
Uses of Cornus alba L. var. occidentalis (Torr. & Gray) Boivin
Cornus alba L. var. occidentalis has several uses, including landscaping, erosion control, and wildlife habitat. The plant's attractive red stems and bark make it a popular choice for landscaping. It is also used to control erosion as its roots hold the soil in place. The plant is a valuable source of food and shelter for various wildlife, such as birds.
General Appearance of Cornus alba L. var. occidentalis (Torr. & Gray) Boivin
Cornus alba L. var. occidentalis is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to 3 to 10 feet tall. Its leaves are oval-shaped and turn a vibrant red color in the fall. The plant's most striking feature is its bright red stems and bark, which are particularly visible in the winter. The plant produces clusters of small white flowers in the summer, which are followed by small berries that turn blue-black in the fall.
Light Requirements
Cornus alba L. var. occidentalis is a deciduous shrub that requires full sun to thrive. It can tolerate partial shade, but its growth and branching will be affected. When grown in full sun, the shrub develops a dense canopy, which makes it an ideal candidate for hedging and screening purposes.
Temperature Requirements
Cornus alba L. var. occidentalis is a cold-hardy plant that can thrive in temperatures as low as -40°C. It is suitable for growing in USDA hardiness zones 2 to 7, where winter temperatures remain consistently low. During the growing season, the plant prefers moderate temperatures between 15°C and 24°C, with moderate humidity levels.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained loamy soils with a pH between 5.0 and 7.5. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay and sand, as long as they are well-drained. Cornus alba L. var. occidentalis can also grow in slightly acidic or slightly alkaline soils. However, it is highly sensitive to waterlogged soils, which can cause root rot and other fungal diseases.
Cultivation methods
Cornus alba L. var. occidentalis is an upright deciduous shrub that is relatively easy to grow in a wide range of soil types and conditions. It is hardy to USDA Zones 2-7 and is tolerant of cold temperatures.
This plant prefers full sun to partial shade and does well in moist, well-drained soils. However, it is also tolerant of less-than-ideal conditions, including nutrient-poor soils, drought, and pollution.
To propagate this plant, take softwood cuttings in early summer or hardwood cuttings in late fall or early winter. The plant can also be grown from seed, although this is more challenging and may not produce true-to-type offspring.
Watering needs
Cornus alba L. var. occidentalis requires regular watering to establish and thrive, especially during the first year of growth. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions and soil moisture.
Once established, the plant is fairly drought-tolerant and can survive mild to moderate drought conditions. However, like most plants, it will perform best with consistent watering, especially during hot, dry weather.
Fertilization
Cornus alba L. var. occidentalis is not a heavy feeder and can perform well with minimal fertilization. However, a balanced fertilizer applied in early spring can help promote growth and vigor.
Apply a slow-release granular fertilizer or a liquid fertilizer at half-strength. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive growth and weak stems.
Pruning
Cornus alba L. var. occidentalis can benefit from annual pruning to promote growth and maintain a healthy, attractive appearance. Prune in late winter or early spring, before the plant begins to leaf out.
Remove dead or damaged branches, as well as any crossing or rubbing branches. Cut back about a third of the oldest stems to the ground to encourage new growth and keep the plant from becoming too leggy.
As a multi-stemmed shrub, this plant can also be selectively pruned to create a more formal hedge or screen. Cut back the tips of new growth to encourage branching and create a dense, bushy habit.
Propagation methods for Cornus alba L. var. occidentalis
Cornus alba L. var. occidentalis, commonly known as redosier dogwood, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the dogwood family. The plant is native to North America and can grow up to 3 meters tall. Propagation of Cornus alba L. var. occidentalis can be carried out using different methods.
Softwood cuttings propagation
Softwood cuttings are used to propagate Cornus alba L. var. occidentalis early in the growing season. The cuttings are taken from the current season's growth, while still tender. A cutting is made by removing a 6-inch-long stem portion, preferably with a node attached. The leaves at the lower half of the stem are removed, and the cutting is dipped in rooting hormone. The stem is then inserted into a container that has a mix of perlite and peat moss. The container is then covered to maintain humidity and placed in a bright, warm location.
Hardwood cuttings propagation
Propagation using hardwood cuttings is done during the plant's dormant season, typically from November to March. Hardwood cuttings are taken from the previous season's mature wood. A cutting 12-24 inches long is taken from the plant, and the lower leaves are removed. The cutting is then dipped in rooting hormone and is directly planted in containers filled with a mix of peat moss and sand. The containers are then covered to maintain humidity and kept in a cool, bright location.
Division propagation
Division propagation of Cornus alba L. var. occidentalis is carried out by uprooting an established plant and dividing it into several portions that have good roots and stems. Division is typically done during the dormant season, and the plant is cut into different portions and planted in containers filled with a mixture of peat moss and perlite. The containers are kept in a well-lit location and watered regularly.
Disease Management
Cornus alba L. var. occidentalis is susceptible to several diseases, including:
- Septoria Leaf Spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves, leading to defoliation. To manage this disease, remove affected plant debris, avoid overhead watering, and apply a fungicide if necessary.
- Canker Disease: Several fungi can cause canker disease in Cornus alba L. var. occidentalis, leading to branch dieback and cankers on the trunk. To manage this disease, prune and dispose of affected branches and apply a fungicide to the affected area.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease causes a white, powdery coating on the leaves, leading to stunted growth. To manage this disease, remove affected leaves and apply a fungicide as needed.
Pest Management
Cornus alba L. var. occidentalis is also susceptible to several pests, including:
- Aphids: These small insects suck sap from the leaves, causing stunted growth and yellowing. To manage aphids, spray the affected plant with a strong stream of water, use insecticidal soap, or apply neem oil.
- Scale Insects: These insects secrete a waxy coating, causing yellowing and stunted growth. To manage scale insects, apply horticultural oil or insecticidal soap to the affected area or prune and dispose of affected branches.
- Japanese Beetles: These beetles feed on the leaves, causing defoliation. To manage Japanese beetles, use a physical barrier, such as a net or a trap, or apply a pesticide as needed.
