Overview & Taxonomy
The Dogwood (Cornus florida), categorized under Trees, belongs to the Cornaceae family (Cornus florida).
- Etymology: Latin 'cornu' (horn, referencing hard wood)
- Distribution & Habitat: Native to Eastern North America, it thrives in Understory tree in deciduous forests.
Botanical Features & Phenology
Small deciduous tree with showy white/pink showy bracts.
- Phenology: Bracts open early spring before leaves.
- Tolerances: Partial shade, acidic damp soils.
- Pests & Diseases: Dogwood anthracnose, borers.
Uses & Conservation
- Primary Uses: Ornamental landscape tree, historical tool handles.
- Cultivars: Cherokee Chief, Cloud 9
- Safety: Berries mildly toxic to humans, eaten by birds.
- Conservation Status: Least Concern
- Historical Context: State tree and flower of Virginia.
References: US Arboretum
