SafePlants

Roundleaf Dogwood (Cornus rugosa)

Cornus rugosa, commonly known as roundleaf dogwood, is a deciduous tree or shrub with notable ecological and aesthetic characteristics.

Considerations for Pets

• The text indicates Cornus rugosa can be a shrub or small tree. The seeds from a shrub may present a hazard to some animals if ingested.

Considerations for Children

• The text indicates Cornus rugosa can be a shrub or small tree. The seeds from a shrub may present a hazard to some children if ingested.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Cornus rugosa
• Common Name: Roundleaf Dogwood
• Family: Cornaceae (Dogwood Family)
• Synonym: Swida rugosa

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to the eastern United States and Canada.
• Specifically mentioned in northeast Iowa.
• Found in New York (NY) and the Adirondacks (ADKS).
• Observed in Fond du Lac Co., Wisconsin.
• Observed in Drummond Island.
• Hanover Watershed, Maryland side.

Morphological Characteristics

• Deciduous tree or shrub.
• Grows to a height of 3-10 feet (approximately 1-3 meters), but can reach up to 8-10 feet.
• Can grow to 4m tall
• Green, smooth stems with warts.
• Oval-shaped leaves, with a slightly roughened texture on the top surface. Leaves can grow to 15cm.
• Small flowers approximately 7 mm. Flower Color: White, Bloom Period: Mid Spring
• Fruit approximately 7 mm. Fruit Conspicuous: Yes
• Bark is gray.
• Twigs are hairless and curve upward from one node to the next. Twigs have green bark.

Ecological Role

• Important shrub for naturalizing in the woodland understory.
• Can be used in naturalized plantings.

Quirky Facts

• The champion Roundleaf Dogwood of Michigan was recognized as the largest known tree of its kind by American Forests in 2006.

Further Information

• Dave's Garden
• Fiddlehead Creek Native Plant Nursery (www.fiddleheadcreek.com)
• Discover Life