Contents
Description
Cornaceae is a family of flowering plants commonly known as the dogwood family. It comprises 58 genera and around 150-170 species of trees and shrubs. They are native to temperate and subtropical regions of the Northern Hemisphere, particularly North America and eastern Asia. The leaves of Cornaceae are opposite and simple, with entire margins. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, arranged in clusters or cymes. The fruit is a drupe, often with a single large seed. Many species of Cornaceae are ornamental and are commonly used in gardens and landscaping.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cornales |
| Family | Cornaceae |
| Genus | Various |
Appearance
Cornaceae plants come in various sizes and shapes. Some species are small shrubs, while others are large trees. The leaves are typically oval or elliptical, with prominent veins and smooth edges. The flowers are usually small and white, yellow, or greenish in color. The fruit is a fleshy drupe that varies in size and color depending on the species. The bark of Cornaceae trees is often smooth and gray, but can also be rough and scaly.
Care Guide
Cornaceae plants are relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips:- Water: Cornaceae plants prefer moist but well-drained soil. Water regularly, especially during dry spells.- Fertilization: Feed Cornaceae plants with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.- Soil: Cornaceae plants grow best in slightly acidic, loamy soil. Make sure the soil is well-drained and rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: Most Cornaceae plants prefer full sun to partial shade. However, some species, such as Cornus florida, prefer partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Different Cornaceae species have different cold hardiness zones. Check the USDA hardiness zone map to find out which species are suitable for your area.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cornaceae plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they can be affected by some common problems such as:- Anthracnose: A fungal disease that causes leaf spots and cankers. Treat with fungicides.- Powdery mildew: A fungal disease that causes a white powdery coating on leaves. Treat with fungicides.- Dogwood borer: A type of beetle that bores into the trunk and branches of dogwood trees. Treat with insecticides.
Habitat
Cornaceae plants are native to temperate and subtropical regions of the Northern Hemisphere. They are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and wetlands. Some species, such as Cornus sericea, are adapted to grow in boggy areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Are Cornaceae plants toxic to pets?
A: No, Cornaceae plants are not toxic to pets.
Q: Can Cornaceae plants grow in containers?
A: Yes, some Cornaceae species, such as Cornus kousa, can be grown in containers.
Q: Do Cornaceae plants have any cultural significance?
A: Yes, some Native American tribes used Cornaceae bark to make medicine and dye.
Q: Can Cornaceae plants be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Cornaceae plants can be propagated from softwood or hardwood cuttings.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants in the Cornales order:- Nyssaceae (tupelo family)- Hydrangeaceae (hydrangea family)- Grubbiaceae (chickweed wintergreen family)- Curtisiaceae (curtisia family)
References
– “Cornaceae.” The Plant List. www.theplantlist.org/browse/A/Cornaceae/.- “Cornaceae.” Missouri Botanical Garden. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderListResults.aspx?parentid=11144.- “Cornaceae.” Flora of North America. www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=10146.
