Cornus florida - Flowering dogwood

Cornus florida, also known as a flowering dogwood, is an ornamental plant from the family of Cornaceae. Cornus florida originally comes from North America and is known for its magnificent flowers, the spectacular autumn color and the attractive, umbrella -like growth form. The flowering dogwood has achieved worldwide popularity as an ornamental plant in recent centuries and is a particularly popular design element in gardens and parks. In addition, Cornus florida has ecological and cultural importance and is estimated in traditional medicine in North America.

Morphology and growth form

Cornus florida is a small, summer green tree or shrub that reaches heights between 6 and 10 meters. Its branches often grow horizontally and form a umbrella -like crown. This growth form gives the tree a striking, harmonious appearance. The leaves of Cornus florida are arranged, egg -shaped to elliptical and reach lengths of 6 to 12 centimeters. The top of the leaf is dark green and is intensely red to purple in autumn, which also makes the tree decorative outside of the flowering period.

The flowers of Cornus florida are arranged in small, inconspicuous heads and are surrounded by four striking, white to pink leaves, which are often considered to be the petals. These leaves are not only decorative, but also attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The flowering period ranges from April to May, and the floral splendor makes the flowering dogwood bars a striking spring messenger. After flowering, the tree develops small, bright orange stone fruits that are slightly poisonous for humans, but serve birds as an important source of food.

Distribution and habitat

Cornus florida is at home in the eastern regions of North America, from New England to Florida and west to Texas and Missouri. In its homeland, the tree grows preferably in forests, on forest edges and on hanging, where it receives sufficient sunlight, but is still protected from severe sunlight. The flowering dogwood prefers well permeable, humus-rich and slightly acidic floors, which adapts it well to the soil of the moderate zones of North America.

Due to its popularity as an ornamental plant, Cornus florida was cultivated in moderate climates worldwide and is now also widespread in Europe, Japan and other regions as a garden and park plant. However, the plant is sensitive to extreme cold and drought and thrives best in regions with moderate temperatures and regular precipitation.

Ecological meaning

Cornus florida plays an important role in the ecosystem of his homeland. The flowers offer an early nectar source for bees and other pollinators in spring, while the fruits in autumn offer food for birds and small mammals. The flowering dogwood thus contributes to biodiversity and the food chain in its habitat.

Another ecological feature of Cornus florida is its ability to promote the growth of mushrooms in the ground. The Mycorrhiza network, which develops in symbiosis with the roots of the flowering dogwood, not only helps the plant itself, but also other plants in the environment, to better absorb nutrients.

Diseases and care

Despite its popularity and attractiveness, Cornus florida is susceptible to certain diseases and pests. The most common disease is the so-called hard drain anthracnosis, which is caused by the mushroom discula destructiva and can lead to leaf spots, anthletes and, in the worst case, to death of the entire tree. The flowering dogwood therefore needs a careful choice of location, preferably in a well-ventilated place, to minimize the risk of fungal infections.

For optimal care, it is advisable to plant the tree at a partially shaded location that is protected from the plump midday sun. The floor should be irrigated regularly, especially during dry periods, because Cornus florida is sensitive to dry stress.

Cultural and medical importance

Cornus florida has a cultural importance in North America, where it serves as a state symbol of Virginia and North Carolina. In the language of the flowers, the flowering dogwood often stands for resistance and love, which also makes it a popular symbol tree in gardens and parks.

In traditional medicine of the indigenous peoples of North America, various parts of the plant were used to treat fever, colds and pain. The bark of the flowering dogwood contains bitter substances that have a fever-lowering effect and were used as a replacement for Chinese binds.