Pacific Dogwood
Cornus nuttallii
Pacific dogwood lights up the spring forest understory with large, showy white bracts surrounding its small true flowers — often mistaken for petals. Its tiered, horizontal branching pattern makes it recognizable even without blooms.
Where found
Understory of mixed conifer-broadleaf forests west of the Cascades.
Fun facts
- What look like four to six white "petals" are actually modified leaves called bracts.
- The state flower of British Columbia.
- Clusters of bright red berries follow the spring bloom, feeding songbirds through fall.
Specs
| Height | 10–20 m |
|---|---|
| Spread | 6–9 m |
| Lifespan | 100–150 yrs |
| Growth Rate | Slow to moderate |
| Sun | Part shade |
| Native Range | British Columbia to southern California, scattered inland to Idaho |
