Big Chocolate Chip Pagoda Dogwood

Big Chocolate Chip™ is a selected form of pagoda dogwood, Cornus alternifolia, known for its chocolate-brown bark and burgundy autumn color. Like the species, it develops a broad, tiered branch structure and spring flowers followed by blue-black fruit. ## Selection and Form Horticultural references identify Big Chocolate Chip™ with the named selection 'Bichozam'; it was introduced by Lake County Nursery. The selection is described as fast-growing and reaching about 7 m (23 ft), while the parent species is commonly 15–25 feet tall and 20–30 feet wide. The existing broad width estimate is retained because exact-selection width evidence is limited. [Trees and Shrubs Online](https://www.treesandshrubsonline.org/articles/cornus/cornus-alternifolia/) · [Morton Arboretum](https://mortonarb.org/plant-and-protect/trees-and-plants/pagoda-dogwood/) ## Siting Plant where the tiered crown has room to spread. Pagoda dogwood grows best in moist, well-drained soil and partial shade, particularly in warm sites; avoid prolonged drought. The cultivar's dark bark and fall color add seasonal interest beyond the small spring flower clusters. [Cornell Woody Plants Database](https://woodyplants.cals.cornell.edu/plant/62) ## Maintenance Keep the root zone evenly moist, especially while establishing. Use mulch to conserve moisture and keep the shallow roots cool. Prune selectively to preserve the horizontal branching pattern.