Dogwood (specifically Flowering Dogwood)
Cornus florida · Cornaceae (Dogwood family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous leaf
Shape
Ovate to elliptic with an acuminate tip
Margin
Entire to slightly wavy
Arrangement
Opposite arrangement on the twig
Venation
Arcuate venation, where secondary veins curve strongly toward the tip of the leaf
Key Features
Opposite leaf arrangement, arcuate venation where veins curve to follow the leaf margin, and distinctive blocky bark on mature trees
Description
The flowering dogwood is a beloved understory small tree famous for its stunning spring floral bracts, distinctive bark that breaks into small blocks resembling alligator skin, and vibrant red autumn foliage paired with glossy red clusters of berries.
Habitat
Understory tree found in deciduous forests, along forest edges, and in moist soils under partial shade
Native Range
Native to eastern North America from southern Maine south to northern Florida and west to Texas and Illinois