The Mexican flowering dogwood, Cornus florida subsp. urbiniana or Cornus urbiniana, also known as “Magic Dogwood” or “Pringle Dogwood,” is a rare variety of the American dogwood. It is highly sought after for its distinctive beauty and unusual blooms, making it a desirable ornamental tree.
Distinctive Features
The Mexican flowering dogwood’s floral display is unique. Unlike typical dogwoods, its showy white bracts, which are modified leaves rather than true flowers, remain fused at their tips, creating a “lantern-like” or “pagoda-like” shape. These blooms emerge in spring, typically from April through June, covering the tree.
The foliage of Cornus florida subsp. urbiniana is generally green, often with a subtle blue tint. In autumn, the leaves develop vibrant reddish, scarlet, or purple hues, extending its seasonal interest.
This deciduous tree exhibits a spreading growth habit. It typically reaches a mature height of 15 to 30 feet, with a spread of 15 to 25 feet. The Mexican flowering dogwood is a slow to moderate grower, developing a layered branching structure that provides visual interest even in winter.
Ideal Growing Environment
The Mexican flowering dogwood thrives in conditions that mimic its native high-elevation Mexican mountain forest habitat. It is hardy in USDA Zones 6 through 9, though some sources indicate it can tolerate Zone 5. Younger trees, especially during their first two to three years, benefit from protection against frost.
This tree performs best with partial shade, particularly in hotter climates where afternoon shade prevents leaf scorch. While it can tolerate full sun in cooler regions, it prefers some protection from intense light as an understory tree. An ideal location provides morning sun and dappled light throughout the day.
The Mexican flowering dogwood prefers rich, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH, ideally between 5.5 and 6.6, though it can tolerate up to 7.0. Soil should be fertile and high in organic matter. Good drainage is important, as the tree does not tolerate waterlogged conditions.
Consistent moisture is important for this species, reflecting its preference for a humid environment, ideally above 40% humidity. It requires regular watering, especially during dry periods, but avoid overwatering. Its shallow root system is sensitive to both drought and excessive moisture.
Planting and Ongoing Care
When selecting a planting site, choose an area that provides the necessary light and soil conditions and accommodates its mature size. Site selection should also consider adequate air circulation around the tree.
To prepare for planting, dig a hole at least three times the diameter of the tree’s root ball, but only as deep as the root ball itself. Position the tree so the top of the root ball is level with or slightly above the surrounding ground. Backfill the hole with the excavated soil, gently firming it around the root ball to remove air pockets.
After planting, water the tree immediately and thoroughly to help settle the soil. For the first one to two years, while the tree establishes, it requires consistent watering, typically once or twice a week. Aim to keep the soil moist to a depth of 2 to 3 inches, checking moisture before watering to prevent over-saturation. Applying a 3 to 4-inch layer of organic mulch around the base, keeping it a few inches from the trunk, helps conserve soil moisture and regulate temperature.
Fertilizing is not necessary in the first year after planting to avoid damaging new roots. In subsequent years, the Mexican flowering dogwood has average feeding needs. A general-purpose fertilizer can be applied twice during the growing season: once in early spring before blooming and again about three months later. Alternatively, a decomposing organic fertilizer can be added in spring, especially if the soil is poor.
Pruning for this dogwood is largely optional, as it naturally develops a Christmas tree-like form. Any pruning should focus on removing dead, damaged, or diseased branches to maintain the tree’s health and appearance. Thinning the canopy can also improve air circulation and light penetration, which encourages better flowering. The best time for pruning is in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins.
Potential Problems and Solutions
The Mexican flowering dogwood exhibits some resistance to common dogwood diseases like anthracnose and verticillium wilt. However, it can still be susceptible to issues such as powdery mildew, various cankers, and root rot, particularly in unfavorable growing conditions. Proper cultural practices, such as ensuring well-drained soil and avoiding overhead watering that wets the foliage, can help prevent many fungal problems.
The tree can attract certain pests, including:
Dogwood borers
Spider mites
Mealy bugs
Thrips
Scale insects
Aphids
Inspecting the tree regularly helps identify pest issues early. For minor infestations, applying insecticidal soap can be an effective solution. Maintaining tree vigor through appropriate watering and soil conditions helps the tree resist pest pressure.