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alternateleaf dogwood

Scientific Name: Cornus alternifolia

Family: Cornaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Tree, Shrub

Duration: Perennial

Other Names: FL (pagoda dogwood)

       

Alternate-Leaved Dogwood (Cornus alternifolia)

The Alternate-Leaved Dogwood, scientifically known as Cornus alternifolia, is a charming deciduous shrub or small tree appreciated for its distinctive tiered branching and unique leaf arrangement within the dogwood family.

Considerations for Pets

  • Even the buds, twigs, and leaves of dogwood are munched on occasionally by local wildlife, although usually not .

Considerations for Children

  • Even the buds, twigs, and leaves of dogwood are munched on occasionally by local wildlife, although usually not .

Common Names

  • Green Osier
  • Pagoda Dogwood
  • Blue Dogwood

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Cornus alternifolia L. f.
  • Family: Cornaceae (Dogwood family)
  • Synonym: Swida alternifolia
  • Taxonomic Rank: Species

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to Ontario, Canada and New York.
  • Common in the forest understory, especially where soils remain moist.
  • Can withstand considerable shade.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Deciduous shrub or small tree, typically 20-35 feet tall.
  • Can grow up to 6 meters (approximately 19 feet) in height and width.
  • Known for its widely spreading, horizontally tiered branches, giving it a pagoda-like appearance.
  • Leaves are alternate (unlike most dogwoods which have opposite leaves), simple, oval to ovate, 2 1/2 to 5 inches long, and tend to cluster towards the ends of branches.
  • Leaves have distinct arcuate venation, with veins curving towards the tip.
  • Slender branches with a flat-topped crown.
  • Fragrant, yellowish-white flowers bloom in May to early June.

Name Derivation

  • Cornus: From the Latin word "cornu," meaning "horn" or "antler".
  • alternifolia: From the Latin words "alternus" (alternate) and "folius" (leaf), referring to the plant's alternate leaf arrangement.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Even the buds, twigs, and leaves of dogwood are munched on occasionally by local wildlife, although usually not .