Roughleaf Dogwood

Cornus drummondii image of Roughleaf Dogwood tree, fruit, and flowers

Roughleaf dogwood is a thicket-forming shrub or small tree found along streams and in the dry uplands where it grows at the edge of forests or in the understory of hardwood forests. It is recognized by the rough, upper leaf surfaces and white fruit. It spreads from root sprouts and provides cover for birds and wildlife.

Identifying Characteristics

Height
20 ft
Spread
12 ft
Leaves
opposite, simple, 1 l/2" - 3 l/2" long; elliptical, edges smooth; rough with short, stiff hairs above, pale and densely hairy below
Flowers
l/4" wide, with 4 petals; in upright flat clusters 2" - 3" wide
Fruit
l/4" diameter white berry
Bark
gray-brown, thin, finely fissured
Associated species
eastern redcedar, white ash, ninebark, persimmon, sumac
Ideal site conditions
average soil, shade
Value to man
erosion, windbreaks, landscaping
Value to wildlife
food, cover
Growth Rate
medium
Range
range