Cornus (Dogwood)
If
a four season shrub is a serious consideration when choosing a new plant then
the cornus species may warrant your
attention. In Latin cornus means “of
horn” the implication being the wood is hard. At one time the bark was used in
a mixture to cure dogs of mange, hence the common name dogwood. (Skinner, Williams,
Best Trees & Shrubs for the Prairie, p.77)
In addition to being a hardy prairie shrub
(zone 2), dogwoods have several features that would appeal to a range of
gardening needs. There is great variety in flowers, fruit, foliage, stem
colour, size and form. As well they vary
in their need for soil type, light and moisture. Most dogwoods are considered shrubs but a few
varieties like the Pagoda Dogwood are sold as multi-stemmed or single stemmed
trees.
Each season showcases one particular aspect
of the dogwood, but it is often the winter interest for which they are most
remembered. When the bright red, yellow,
or purple- black stems hold court in the dead of winter we appreciate their
contribution to out winter landscape
Dogwoods combine well with Hydrangeas and
High Bush Cranberries. For contrast try
planting a red stemmed dogwood in front of an evergreen. Whether used as a specimen plant, in mass
plantings or as hedges, dogwoods are an attractive addition to any garden.
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