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Description
Cornus Suecica, commonly known as the Arctic Dogwood or Lapland Cornel, is a low-growing deciduous shrub that belongs to the Dogwood family. It is native to the Arctic regions of Europe, Asia, and North America, and can be found growing in wet meadows, bogs, and tundra.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cornales |
| Family | Cornaceae |
| Genus | Cornus |
Appearance
The Arctic Dogwood is a small, spreading shrub that grows up to 10-30 cm tall and 30-50 cm wide. It has green, ovate leaves that are arranged oppositely on the stem. In the summer, it produces small, creamy-white flowers that are followed by red berries in the fall. The red stems of the Arctic Dogwood provide a beautiful contrast to the white snow in the winter.
Care Guide
The Arctic Dogwood is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your Arctic Dogwood healthy:
- Water: The Arctic Dogwood prefers moist soil and can tolerate some standing water. Water regularly during the growing season.
- Fertilization: Fertilize once a year with a balanced fertilizer in the spring.
- Soil: The Arctic Dogwood prefers acidic, well-drained soil.
- Sunlight: The Arctic Dogwood can tolerate full sun to partial shade, but it prefers some shade in the afternoon.
- Hardiness Zones: The Arctic Dogwood is hardy in USDA zones 2-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Arctic Dogwood is relatively pest and disease free. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as leaf spot and powdery mildew. It is also attractive to aphids, which can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves.
Habitat
The Arctic Dogwood is native to the Arctic regions of Europe, Asia, and North America. It can be found growing in wet meadows, bogs, and tundra, often in association with other Arctic plants such as mosses and lichens.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Arctic Dogwood be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Arctic Dogwood can be grown in containers as long as it is provided with the appropriate growing conditions.
Q: Does the Arctic Dogwood require pruning?
A: The Arctic Dogwood does not require pruning, but it can be pruned in the spring to maintain its shape and size.
Q: Is the Arctic Dogwood deer-resistant?
A: The Arctic Dogwood is moderately deer-resistant, but it may still be browsed by deer in times of food scarcity.
Q: Can the Arctic Dogwood be propagated by cuttings?
A: Yes, the Arctic Dogwood can be propagated by softwood cuttings taken in the summer.
Related Plants
- Cornus Canadensis (Bunchberry)
- Cornus Sericea (Red Osier Dogwood)
- Cornus Alba (Tatarian Dogwood)
References
- USDA Plants Database: Cornus suecica
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Cornus suecica
- RHS: Cornus suecica
