Dogwood Tree Research

Dr. Orton’s varieties rejuvenate the commercial dogwood nursery industry

The release of the ‘Stellar Series’® provided dogwood varieties to the landscape industry that were found to be highly resistant to the dogwood borer, while displaying significantly improved resistance to powdery mildew and dogwood anthracnose. With the availability of the ‘Stellar Series’® dogwood, nurseries immediately embraced Dr. Orton’s new varieties which provided commercial dogwood nurseries unique varieties that were greatly improved compared to the native American dogwood.

Vigorous growth and large flowers attract attention

In addition to the ‘Stellar Series’® Dr. Orton continued his research and hybridization to improve commercial dogwood trees. Cross-breeding with the Kousa dogwood and Cornus nuttalli produced, after years of hybridization and field testing, the hybrid ‘Jersey Star’® series of varieties that were commercially released in 2004, the first two new varieties being ‘Venus’® and ‘Starlight’®. These new varieties are extraordinarily robust and are distinguished by very attractive large white flowers.

Most recent advancements in dogwood breeding

The most recent new dogwood varieties released by Dr. Orton include ‘Hyperion’®, an advanced generation hybrid distinguished by extreme vigor, rapid growth, and attractive flowers, and ‘Red Pygmy’®, a rare dwarf red dogwood tree ideal for the small garden.

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Licensing and Technology: Agricultural Products