SafePlants

Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida)

The flowering dogwood, scientifically known as Cornus florida, is a beloved ornamental tree prized for its spring blossoms and year-round visual interest. It is native to eastern North America and northern Mexico.

Considerations for Pets

• Berries are mentioned, potentially attracting animals.

Considerations for Children

• Berries are mentioned, potentially attracting children.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Cornus florida L.
• Common Names: Flowering dogwood, Virginia dogwood, Florida dogwood, White cornel, Arrowwood, American boxwood, False box, St. Peter's crown, Corona de san pedro, Dogwood, Eastern Flowering Dogwood
• Family: Cornaceae
• Kingdom: Plantae
• Taxonomic Rank: Species
• Synonym: Cynoxylon floridum ( L.) Raf. ex B.D. Jacks.

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to eastern North America and northern Mexico.
• Found throughout the eastern half of the United States, including Ohio and Texas.
• Often grows as an understory tree in mesic forests.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Small deciduous tree, typically growing 15-30 feet tall, though it can reach up to 40 feet.
• May grow to 3-10 meters in height.
• Has a low-branching, broadly-pyramidal form.
• Oval leaves are arranged in pairs along the branch.
• Showy "flowers" are actually clusters of small flowers surrounded by four petal-like bracts, which can be white or pink.

Ecological Role

• A common understory tree, meaning it grows beneath taller trees.
• Valuable food plant for wildlife.

Other Noteworthy Points

• Deciduous, losing its leaves in the winter.
• Prefers full sun to part shade and fertile, humus-rich, well-drained, neutral to acid soil.
• Used historically to make inks and dyes.
• State tree of Virginia and state flower of North Carolina.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Attracts wild birds.

Resources

• Dave's Garden