Common Name:
Dogwood
Cornel
Some 45-50 species ranging from semi-woody, perennial herbs to (mostly) shrubs and small trees. Leaves are opposite, except C. alternifolia and C. controversa, simple, entire, with prominent venation. The usually bisexual flowers are in various types of clusters (cyme, umbel, panicle, compact head) which are often subtended by showy 1-4 bracts. The fruit (drupe) is 2-seeded.
Cornus: Latin for Cornus mas
Pronunciation:
KOR-nus
Family:
Cornaceae (Dogwood Family)