Contents
Description
Cornus is a diverse genus of shrubs and trees commonly known as dogwoods. These plants are native to various regions of the world, including North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. The plants in this genus range in size from small shrubs to large trees, with some species reaching up to 40 feet in height. The leaves of Cornus are simple and opposite, with a prominent vein pattern. The flowers are small and clustered, and the fruit is a drupe that is often brightly colored.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cornales |
| Family | Cornaceae |
| Genus | Cornus |
Appearance
Cornus plants have a wide range of appearances due to the diversity of the genus. The leaves are typically simple and opposite, with a prominent vein pattern. The flowers are small and clustered, and the fruit is a drupe that is often brightly colored. The bark of the plants can be smooth or rough, and the branches can be straight or twisted. The size of the plants can range from small shrubs to large trees, with some species reaching up to 40 feet in height.
Care Guide
Cornus plants are generally easy to care for and do well in a variety of conditions. They prefer well-drained soil and full to partial sunlight. The plants should be watered regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. Fertilization should be done in the spring, using a balanced fertilizer. The hardiness zones for Cornus plants vary depending on the species, but most are hardy in zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cornus plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they can be affected by a few common problems. One of the most common pests is the dogwood borer, which can cause significant damage to the plants. Other pests that can affect Cornus plants include aphids, scale insects, and spider mites. The most common diseases that affect Cornus plants are powdery mildew and leaf spot.
Habitat
Cornus plants are native to various regions of the world, including North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. They are commonly found in forests, woodlands, and along streams and rivers. Some species of Cornus are also used in landscaping and can be found in gardens and parks.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the most common pest that affects Cornus plants?
A: The most common pest is the dogwood borer.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for most Cornus plants?
A: Most Cornus plants are hardy in zones 3-8.
Q: What type of soil do Cornus plants prefer?
A: Cornus plants prefer well-drained soil.
Q: Where are Cornus plants commonly found?
A: Cornus plants are commonly found in forests, woodlands, and along streams and rivers.
Related Plants
- Cornus alba
- Cornus florida
- Cornus kousa
- Cornus mas
- Cornus nuttallii
References
- “Cornus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 22, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280839&isprofile=1&genus=Cornus.
- “Dogwood.” The Old Farmer’s Almanac. Accessed September 22, 2021. https://www.almanac.com/plant/dogwood.
- “Cornus.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed September 22, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/search-results?form-mode=true&context=l%3Den%26q%3Dcornus%26sl%3DplantForm.
