Cornus florida or eastern flowering dogwood is native to Ontario provides multi-season beauty, and serves as a larval host for the Spring Azure butterfly. In Ontario, it is only found naturally in the Carolinian zone and considered a rare species. Its range extends from southeastern Maine to southern Ontario and Michigan, south to Illinois, Oklahoma, northeastern Mexico, and Florida. It prefers well-drained, acidic soil that is high in organic matter, and pH that is slightly acidic or neutral. Ideal for woodlands or forest edges, it thrives in naturalized areas. Transplanting is difficult as it requires bare roots, but is easier with container or balled-and-burlapped trees.