Cornus alternifolia or pagoda dogwood is native to Ontario and is known for its elegant, tiered branching that resembles a pagoda. Its range extends across eastern North America, from Newfoundland west to southern Manitoba and Minnesota, and south to northern Florida and Mississippi. Thriving in partial shade to full sun, it prefers cool, moist, acidic, well-drained soils but adapts well to poorer soils and clay. While generally low-maintenance, pagoda dogwood may be susceptible to certain issues like Cryptodiaporthe canker, leaf spot, and occasional pests. Regular sucker removal helps maintain healthy growth, and the tree benefits from consistent moisture and mulching during its establishment phase. Ideal for shaded or partially shaded landscapes, it�s a beautiful specimen tree for woodlands or naturalized areas. While sucker removal is key to maintaining healthy growth, pagoda dogwood is often a short-lived tree and some should be kept around to ensure the tree's survival.