Genus species: Cornus officinalis Family: Cornaceae

Common name: Cornelian Dogwood

Size: Up to 30’ eventually Shape: Multi-stemmed, large bush to small tree

Growth rate: Moderate Type: Deciduous

Foliage: Leaves opposite, simple, ovate to elliptic, to 4+ inches long, with 6-7 pairs of veins

Seasonal foliage color: Some purplish orange fall coloration

Flowers: Yellow flowers open in spring before the leaves, in short stalked umbels

Features: The yellow flowers give an uplifting display when it is much appreciated. Fruit is an oblong drupe, bright cherry red, 1/2”+ long.

Growing conditions: Sun to part shade. Prefers acidic, organically rich, well drained soil. Likes some moisture and mulch. Fairly drought tolerant

Climate zone: to zone 5

Uses and comments: Native to Japan and China. Flowers earlier than Cornus mas. Excellent in shrub borders, woodland gardens, and naturalized areas, in a hedge, or as a small tree