Rutgers Dogwoods
Cultivars
History
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About Dogwoods
Dogwoods are among the most popular and beloved flowering trees in eastern ornamental landscapes. Their blooms—actually modified leaves called floral bracts—are long‑lasting, resilient, and available in a range of colors from white to pink to deep red, with many subtle shades in between. This combination of beauty, durability, and seasonal interest has made dogwoods an essential and coveted part of springtime landscapes.
In the 1970s, however, widespread disease threatened the future of the native American dogwood, Cornus florida. In response, Dr. Elwin Orton pioneered the hybridization of C. florida with the hardier Asian species C. kousa, establishing the foundation of the resilient Rutgers dogwood breeding program and leading to the release of the award-winning Stellar Series® hybrid cultivars. Later, he incorporated the west coast native dogwood Cornus nuttallii leading to the Jersey Star® series. For more than three decades, these hybrid dogwoods have earned a reputation for exceptional disease resistance, vigor, and landscape performance. Continuing this legacy, Dr. Thomas Molnar has advanced the program with innovative new kousa cultivars—such as the vivid pink blooming Scarlet Fire® dogwood—that expand bloom color, extend the flowering season, and further elevate the standard for modern dogwoods.
Dogwood Cultivars
Please note: Dogwood floral bracts may show variations in bract shape, color, and other features, such as edge and tip coloration during their growth. Additionally, external factors such as sun, shade, soil (acidity), and weather, may affect the bract features. To assure you are purchasing a Rutgers dogwood, ask to see the Rutgers plant tag or invoice. Young dogwoods or leafless trees may all look alike.
