Native Plants
![](../_images/smarty_plants.gif)
Q. Who is Mr. Smarty Plants?
A: There are those who suspect Wildflower Center volunteers are the culpable and capable culprits. Yet, others think staff members play some, albeit small, role. You can torture us with your plant questions, but we will never reveal the Green Guru's secret identity.
Did you know you can access the Native Plant Information Network with your web-enabled smartphone?
Ask Mr. Smarty Plants is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
![](../_images/mr_smarty_plants_logo_web_200w.jpg)
rate this answer
![](../_images/star_00.gif)
Sunday - June 13, 2010
From: Dallas, GA
Region: Southeast
Topic: Trees
Title: Best dogwood to plant in Dallas GA
Answered by: Barbara Medford
QUESTION:
I am interested in how to select the best dogwood (Flowering) tree to plant in Dallas, GA 30157. The location receives full sun, the soil is typical GA clay/?. I found a list of 20+ Dogwood trees on your website. Also, when is the best time to plant?ANSWER:
Okay, there is good news and bad news. First, the good news: There are 14 members of the Cornus (dogwood) native to North America and 5 native to Georgia. Three of that 5 are adaptable to clay soil. Now, the bad news: Not a single one can tolerate full sun, which we believe to be 6 hours or more of sun a day. They all call for part shade (2 to 6 hours of sun a day) or shade (less than 2 hours of sun). We will certainly list the three that will grow in clay soils. Perhaps you can visit nurseries in your area to determine if there are cultivars (which we would not have in our Native Plant Database) that will tolerate that much sun. Follow each plant link to learn more about the growing conditions, bloom time and culture of that plant. And if you do find a dogwood you are willing to chance in all that sun, don't plant it until late Fall. Woody plants should never be planted in very hot or very cold temperatures.
Dogwoods for Clay Soil in Dallas, GA:
Cornus alternifolia (alternateleaf dogwood)
Cornus drummondii (roughleaf dogwood)
From our Native Plant Image Gallery:
More Trees Questions
February 24, 2015 - I have an Ehretia anacua in the way of possible development of a new building and I have a few questions.\r\nWhat is the typical life span of that tree and are the roots sensitive to compaction and ...
view the full question and answer
Is a Brandywine Maple messy from Westchester IL
November 06, 2011 - Brandywine Maple: Does this tree produce sap, seeds or flower? As a home owner I can't afford more maintenance with clogged gutters or a sap covered car. Thank you.
view the full question and answer
Looking for a Privacy Barrier Plant for NC
August 21, 2014 - I am trying to determine the best plant for a privacy barrier for my area in NC that has clay soil. I have a 6 foot high fence but need something 12 feet or taller. It has to be something that does no...
view the full question and answer
Removing a non-native windmill palm from Austin
February 27, 2013 - I have a fairly good size windmill palm (about 15ft high) that is planted too close to the house. I also don't like having to constantly remove its fronds as they block a walkway. Is there a good wa...
view the full question and answer
Sudden death of one side of Mountain Laurel from Canyon Lake TX
July 22, 2013 - Hello! We live in Canyon Lake TX and have a Mountain Laurel that is in distress. It is planted in an irrigated flower bed and has been happily growing for 5 years. It is about 5' tall and has sever...
view the full question and answer
Support the Wildflower Center by Donating Online or Becoming a Member today. |