Since its planting in 2009 as part of a complete renovation and replanting of our Los Altos back yard, this lovely little tree has anchored the lower left corner of the yard. It stands in a shady spot near the lower patio at one end of Mike's horseshoe pit.
Officially classified as Cornus Kousa, or Wolf Eyes dogwood, its first signs of spring are the small buds that blossom into white "bracts." Resembling petaled flowers, bracts appear on the bare branches before any leaves.
This set of five photos tracks the development
of the characteristic white bracts from
March through May 2021.
 |
 |
 |
 |
The bracts remain for about two months and then green foliage begins to overtake and replace them. |
Winter |
April 10 |
April 24 |
May 10 |
Summer |