Dogwood
Cornus florida
Family: Cornaceae · Also called Flowering Dogwood, American Dogwood, Cornelian Tree, Benthamia florida, Benthamidia florida, Cynoxylon floridum
Green & Fresh · Spring bloomer
The flowering dogwood is one of North America's most beloved ornamental trees, not for its actual flowers (tiny, greenish clusters) but for the four large, petal-like bracts that surround them, creating the illusion of 6-inch blooms in white or shell pink that float like clouds through the spring woodland canopy.
durability, rebirth, affection
In the Victorian language of flowers, dogwood means “Love undiminished by adversity”. According to Christian legend, the dogwood once grew tall but was used for the crucifixion cross, after which God made it a small, twisted tree that would never again be large enough for such purpose. The four bracts represent the cross, each bearing a rust-colored 'nail mark.' North Carolina and Virginia both claim it as state flower/tree.
Did You Know?
Dogwood timber is extraordinarily hard and shock-resistant, it was historically used for textile shuttles, golf club heads, and butcher's blocks. The wood doesn't splinter, which is why it was prized for tool handles. The name may derive from 'dag-wood' (skewer wood) rather than anything to do with dogs.
Understory of deciduous forests, woodland edges, and well-drained hillsides
Dogwood is native to Eastern North America. It naturally grows in understory of deciduous forests, woodland edges, and well-drained hillsides.
Scent Profile
“The flowers themselves are nearly scentless, what you notice is the green, woody fragrance of the tree in spring, a fresh and clean backdrop to the visual spectacle of white or pink bracts.”
Quick Reference
- Scientific NameCornus florida
- FamilyCornaceae
- Native ToEastern North America
- Bloom SeasonSpring
- LifespanPerennial
Cultural Significance
According to Christian legend, the dogwood once grew tall but was used for the crucifixion cross, after which God made it a small, twisted tree that would never again be large enough for such purpose. The four bracts represent the cross, each bearing a rust-colored 'nail mark.' North Carolina and Virginia both claim it as state flower/tree.