Cornus Ruth Ellen

Ruth Ellen Dogwood

otanical name: Cornus ‘Ruth Ellen’ (Stellar® Series hybrid; C. florida × C. kousa)*

Overview
A vigorous hybrid flowering dogwood from the Stellar® series, valued for its large, overlapping white bracts and improved disease resistance. Blooming in late spring, flowers appear after most C. florida types, extending the dogwood season. Glossy green foliage remains clean through summer, turning red to burgundy in fall. ‘Ruth Ellen’ combines refined form with strong durability and landscape reliability.

Size



Width: 15–20 ft



Height: 15–20 ft



Hardiness



USDA Zones: 5a–8b



Light



Full sun to partial shade



Morning sun with afternoon shade preferred in hotter regions



Soil



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



Slightly acidic pH preferred



Avoid compacted or poorly drained sites



Attracts



Pollinators (flowers)



Birds (fruit)



Suitable Conditions



Performs best in cool to moderate climates



Noted for strong resistance to dogwood anthracnose and powdery mildew



Allow space for layered branching and mature canopy spread



Notes



Shape: Upright when young, maturing to broad and layered



One of the most durable hybrid dogwoods available



Part of the Rutgers hybrid breeding program



Excellent specimen tree for lawns, courtyards, and mixed borders



Minimal pruning required; prune only for structure or deadwood

Plant type

Flowering Ornamental Tree

Height

15-20'

Width

15-20'

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Late Spring

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Red

Soil

Loamy, Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Specimen

Shape

Broad Upright, Horizontal Branching

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No