Trees · Dogwoods
Franco's Red Dogwood
Cornus florida 'Franco's red'
In USDA zones 7b–8a around Raleigh, Durham, and Cary, Franco's Red Dogwood is a tree used in Triangle yards when mature size, sun, and drainage fit the bed. Piedmont clay rewards a wide planting hole, a slightly high crown, and steady first-season water. Seasonal flowers are usually why it earns a street-facing spot. Fall planting is the usual window here; water through the first summer no matter the calendar.
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Key facts for the Triangle
- Botanical name
- Cornus florida 'Franco's red'
- Common name
- Franco's Red Dogwood
- Plant type
- Trees
- Group
- Dogwoods
- Hardiness here
- USDA 7b–8a (Raleigh–Durham Triangle)
- Light
- Part sun / part shade
- Water
- Deep, consistent water while establishing
- Soil
- Well-drained
- Leaf habit
- See overview
- Best planting window
- Fall (October–November) in the Piedmont; spring after frost as backup
Overview
Franco's Red Dogwood is a trees selected for landscape use where its mature habit, ornamental traits, and site preferences fit the planting area.
At a glance
Sun
Water & soil
Wildlife
Flowers & fragrance
Foliage & season
Common questions
Is Franco's Red Dogwood a good plant for Raleigh and the Triangle?
Yes—when the site matches its light and drainage needs. Franco's Red Dogwood is used in Raleigh, Durham, and Cary landscapes in USDA zones 7b–8a. Confirm mature width, overhead wires, and how wet the Piedmont clay stays after storms before you plant.
When should I plant Franco's Red Dogwood in North Carolina?
Fall (October–November) is the safest window for Franco's Red Dogwood in the Piedmont: soil is still warm, air is cooler, and roots can grow before summer. Spring after the last frost works if you can water deeply through the first hot season.
Will Franco's Red Dogwood grow in Piedmont clay?
It can, with careful planting: wide hole, crown slightly above grade, and no water sitting on the root flare. Heavy, poorly drained clay is the usual failure mode—not summer heat alone.
Does Franco's Red Dogwood prefer sun or shade?
Part sun or part shade is the usual fit. Morning sun with afternoon protection is often ideal in hot Piedmont summers.