Cornus

The dogwood genus comprises 51 species of hardy, woody, perennial trees and shrubs distributed throughout the world on every continent except Antarctica and Australia. It is one of only two genera of the dogwood family (Cornaceae). The genus name is derived from the Latin word cornu meaning “animal horn.” It references the very hard wood.

Dogwoods grow in a variety of habitats, from temperate woodlands to tundra. Most species require full sun, although our native flowering dogwood (Cornus florida) is tolerant of light shade. They grow in most soil types, except deep, sterile sand, and require a chilling period to bloom well.

A recent molecular phylogenetic study shows that the genus comprises four well-supported groups: The large-bracted dogwoods of East Asia and North America, the dwarf dogwoods of high latitudes in Europe, Asia and North America; the widespread cornellian cherries; and the blue- or white-fruited dogwoods of East Asia, North and South America. Some botanists recognize each lineage as a separate genus, but a more inclusive approach is taken here. 

Many of the species and cultivars are garden-worthy trees and shrubs. They are suitable to a wide variety of garden styles, including cottage garden, formal garden, pollinator garden, or woodland garden. They can serve as specimen or accent trees, small trees, foundation shrubs, or screens.