Roughleaf dogwood

Cornus drummondii

Cornaceae


Description

Roughleaf dogwood is an unevenly shaped, cool-season shrub or small tree. It has simple ovular leaves that are opposite each other. They are about 1 to 4 inches long and have parallel, elastic veins that hold together even after the leaf has been broken or pulled apart. The leaves are rough on the upper surface and have a pointed tip.

From April to May its cream colored flowers emerge on many broad clusters at the end of the branches. The fruit also emerges in rounded clusters and is small, waxy white, and has a dark spot; it ripens from August to October.

Roughleaf dogwood serves as a good plant for wildlife.


Habitat

Roughleaf dogwood grows in moist soil in bottomlands and along creeks.


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