Dogwood, Cornelian Cherry
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Magnoliophyta, Class: Magnoliopsida, Order: Cornales, Family: Cornaceae, Genus: Cornus, Species: Cornus mas · Cornaceae (Dogwood family) · Simple, Deciduous
Species
Cornus mas (80% confidence based on leaf arrangement and venation)
Leaf Type
Simple, Deciduous
Family
Cornaceae (Dogwood family)
Shape
Ovate to elliptical
Size
Approximately 2-4 inches long, which is typical for this species' range; standard width is 1-2 inches.
Margin
Entire (smooth), though sometimes slightly undulate (wavy).
Arrangement
Opposite (appearing slightly staggered in this sample due to pressing).
Rarity
Common (frequently found in parks, gardens, and native European woodlands).
Color & Pattern
Medium to dark green on the upper surface, slightly paler beneath. No variegation is visible. Typical summer green coloration without signs of autumn senescence.
Venation Pattern
Arcuate (pinnate veins that curve and parallel the leaf margin toward the apex), which is a diagnostic feature of the Cornus genus.
Texture & Surface
Smooth (glabrous) to slightly appressed-pubescent (fine hairs pressed flat); slightly leathery texture.
Description
A slow-growing deciduous shrub or small tree. It is famous for its early spring yellow flowers that appear before the leaves. The bark becomes scaly and exfoliating with age. It produces edible, red, cherry-like drupes in late summer.
Key Features
Arcuate venation (veins curving toward the tip), opposite leaf arrangement, and slightly thickened, ovate leaves.
Habitat
Found in deciduous forests, woodland edges, and thickets. Prefers well-drained, alkaline soils in temperate climates.
Geographic Range
Native to Central and Southern Europe and Western Asia. Widely cultivated as an ornamental in North America.
Condition Notes
The specimen appears to be in good health. There is minimal insect herbivory or fungal spotting. The leaf color is consistent and shows no signs of chlorosis.
Interesting Facts
The wood is extremely dense and was historically used to make spears, tool handles, and gears. The fruit is used in Eastern Europe to make jams and liquors.
Medicinal & Uses
Fruits are high in Vitamin C and used for digestive issues. In landscaping, it is valued for its early spring bloom and hardiness.
Ecological Role
Provides early-season nectar for bees and pollinators. The fruits are an important food source for many bird species and small mammals.
Similar Species
Cornus sanguinea (Common Dogwood), which has similar venation but leaves are typically softer and turn deep red in autumn; Cornus florida, which has wider, more rounded leaves.
Foraging Tips
Look for opposite branching and the 'string test': if you gently break a leaf, the veins may stay connected by thin latex-like threads. Identify in early spring by its bright yellow umbels.
Toxicity Warning
Non-toxic. The fruit is edible when fully ripe (dark red/burgundy), though tart.