Dogwood, Cornus florida.  It is the state flower of Virginia (my home) as well as North Carolina. They grow throughout our woods, and are most noticeable in spring when they bloom white and pink.  

 

Dogwood is an understory tree, meaning it grows under the tall trees, and likes partial sun and shadows.  If they grow naturally in partial shade, it makes sense to provide shade if you want to plant one in your yard.  I've seen them in full sun, but not as often as in partial shade.  I'd go for the shade.

 

The Dogwoods in my woods are starting to show fall color.  They also have lots of bright red berries.  I've noticed others doing the same thing.  There is a beautiful one in the meadow down near the gate, also starting to turn red.  (It's in full sun, blowing my theory.)  Lee and Cindy also have several pink flowering Dogwoods in the sun, and they are beautiful.

 

An easy way to identify Dogwoods (besides the bark!) is by noticing how the branches grow in flat cloud-like formations.  That's probably easier to see when they are in bloom, but you can still see it now.

 

I hope you see them as they transition into fall.  

 

HAPPY GARDENING!!