Cornus racemosa
Gray Dogwood
General
Gray dogwood is a medium sized (sometimes tall) shrub that tolerates a wide variety of growing conditions. Fruit is eaten by birds in autumn, and is eaten by deer in some areas.
Plant Description
Usually around 6 feet tall but occasionally taller. Clusters of small white flowers that bloom in the late spring or summer; fruiting with bright white clusters of fruit on purplish-red branches in summer or fall. In fall the leaves turn a dull, deep purplish-red, which contrasts nicely with the berries. Bark is grey to red in color.
Height (ft)
6, occasionally up to 10
Spread (ft)
6-10
Soil moisture
Medium
Soil types
Fine to Medium
Wetland indicator
FAC
Shade tolerance
Tolerant, Full Sun to Full Shade
Bloom color
White
Bloom period
Spring, Summer
Fall conspicuous
Medium
Anaerobic tolerance
Low
Drought tolerance
Medium
Salinity tolerance
None
Self-Pollinating?
Yes
Range
Northeastern United States, as far south as Virginia and Arkansas and as far west as North Dakota, with the range also extending into southern Canada.
Kartesz, J.T. 2024. Floristic Synthesis of North America, Version 1.0. Biota of North America Program (BONAP) [website http://bonap.org/]
Additional Information
According to BRIT - Native American Ethnobotany Database, the bark has been made into a decoction applied as a poultice for cuts and for swollen abdomens. An infusion of the bark has been held in mouth to treat a toothache. The bark has also been ceremonially smoked.