Common dogwood

Description

Cornus sanguinea, commonly known as the common dogwood or European dogwood, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Cornaceae family. It is native to Europe, Western Asia, and Northern Africa, where it can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, hedgerows, and riverbanks. The shrub is widely cultivated for its ornamental value and is commonly used in hedgerows and mixed borders. Description Cornus sanguinea is a multi-stemmed shrub that can grow up to 3 meters in height. It has a dense, bushy habit with erect branches that grow in an arching pattern. The shrub produces dark green leaves that are ovate in shape and have an opposite arrangement. The leaves turn a deep red or purple color in the fall, adding to the ornamental value of the shrub. The common dogwood produces clusters of small, creamy white flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. The flowers are arranged in flat-topped cymes, with each cyme consisting of a central cluster of flowers surrounded by smaller clusters. The flowers are followed by small, oval-shaped, blue-black berries that are loved by birds. Cultivation Cornus sanguinea is an easy-to-grow shrub that prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. It is hardy in USDA zones 4-8 and can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soil. The shrub is relatively drought tolerant once established and is resistant to most diseases and pests. Propagation Cornus sanguinea can be propagated from softwood cuttings taken in early summer or hardwood cuttings taken in the fall. Softwood cuttings should be taken from new growth that is still flexible, while hardwood cuttings should be taken from mature wood that has hardened off. Both types of cuttings should be taken from healthy, disease-free plants and should be at least 10cm in length. Once the cuttings are taken, they should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining rooting medium. The cuttings should be kept moist and in a shaded location until they begin to root. This typically takes between 4-8 weeks for softwood cuttings and up to 12 weeks for hardwood cuttings. Uses Cornus sanguinea is primarily grown for its ornamental value. The shrub's dense, bushy habit and colorful foliage make it a popular choice for hedgerows and mixed borders. It can also be used as a specimen plant or in mass plantings. In addition to its ornamental value, Cornus sanguinea has several medicinal uses. The plant's bark and roots have been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, including fevers, rheumatism, and skin conditions. The bark and roots contain several compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making them effective for treating a range of health issues. Conclusion Cornus sanguinea is a versatile and easy-to-grow shrub that offers both ornamental and medicinal value. Its dense, bushy habit and colorful foliage make it a popular choice for hedgerows and mixed borders, while its bark and roots have been used for centuries to treat a range of health issues. Whether you're looking for a beautiful addition to your garden or a natural remedy for a health ailment, Cornus sanguinea is a great choice.