Cornus foemina

Stiff Dogwood

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This shrubby dogwood is found only in low moist woodlands and swamps. It grows with stiff, upright branches, reddish-purplish stems and dark green leaves that are one to four inches long. Creamy white flowers in cymes up to three inches across bloom in late spring. Flowers are followed by blue drupe fruits that mature in the fall.

Additional Information:
Larval host of Spring Azure butterfly.

It can be distinguished from C. racemosa, Gray Dogwood, by its blue fruit and the white pith of its stems, vs. the pale brown pith of C. racemosa's.

Height 20-30 Feet

Spread 8-10 Feet

Bloom/Seasonal Color White

USDA Hardiness Zone 4-9

Home Owner Growing and Maintenance Tips:
Shrubs that tolerate or thrive in moist and wet soils are limited, so this species is a valuable choice for naturalizing or planting in shrub borders in moist or soggy sites.

Characteristics & Attributes