Cornus florida First Lady

First Lady Dogwood

Botanical name: Cornus florida ‘First Lady’

Overview
A bright variegated flowering dogwood valued for its gold-edged green foliage and classic white spring bracts. Leaves emerge with bold yellow margins that illuminate shaded areas and hold strong contrast through the growing season. Mid-spring white blooms appear along horizontal branches, followed by red to burgundy fall color and glossy red fruit. ‘First Lady’ offers season-long foliage interest with traditional dogwood structure.

Size



Width: 20–25 ft



Height: 20–25 ft



Hardiness



USDA Zones: 5a–9b



Light



Partial shade preferred



Morning sun with afternoon shade ideal



Protect from intense afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch



Soil



Well-drained soils; prefers moist, organic-rich loam



Slightly acidic pH preferred



Avoid compacted or poorly drained sites



Attracts



Pollinators (spring flowers)



Birds (red fall fruit)



Suitable Conditions



Performs best in cool to moderate climates



Excellent understory or woodland-edge tree



Allow space for horizontal branching and natural canopy spread



Notes



Shape: Horizontal, layered branching with rounded canopy



Foliage brightness enhances shaded landscapes



Excellent specimen tree for lawns, woodland gardens, and mixed borders



Minimal pruning required; prune only for structure or deadwood

Plant type

Deciduous Tree, Flowering Ornamental Tree

Height

20-25'

Width

20-25'

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Spring

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Dark Green

Fall color

Purple, Red

Attracts

Birds

Soil

Acidic, Moist well-drained

Shape

Horizontal Branching, Rounded, Upright

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No