Cornus macrophylla aka Largeleaf Dogwood

Cornus macrophylla is a deciduous dogwood in the Cornaceae family. Its common names include large-leaf dogwood and bigleaf dogwood. Its native range runs from Afghanistan to Sakhalin and Taiwan. It grows in woods, on slopes, and beside streams. It also grows along woodland edges and in mixed forests. These habitats range from sea level to 11,800 feet [3,600 metres]. The species remains scarce in gardens in the United States.

This plant can grow as a shrub or tree. In gardens, it forms a tree with a rounded crown. Reported size reaches 49 feet [15 metres] tall. Its spread can reach about 33 feet [10 metres]. It sheds its leaves for winter. White flowers open from July to August and have a sweet scent. Each flower has both male and female organs. Insects pollinate the flowers. Purple-black fruits follow, each about 0.02 feet [0.006 metres] across. Seeds ripen from August through October. Plants can bear large crops in Britain.

Grow this dogwood in full sun or light shade. It prefers moist soil with at least moderate fertility. It accepts sandy soil, loam, and even heavy clay. It also tolerates mildly acid, neutral, and mildly alkaline ground. Chicago Botanic Garden lists it for USDA zones 5–7. Its rounded form suits use as a specimen tree. The garden also lists it for urban streets. It can form part of a woodland garden canopy. Its flowers and fruit provide interest, and it attracts birds.

Plants For A Future describes this species as easy to grow. It lists no known hazards and no weed potential. These reports do not establish safety for every person or pet. The fruit can be eaten fresh or cooked. The same source records traditional medicinal uses for the wood and bark. These include pain relief and treatment of dysentery. Such records do not establish that these treatments work. The hard, close-grained wood tends to warp but makes useful charcoal.

Seed propagation calls for patience, since stored seed may germinate slowly. Remove the flesh before sowing; it contains compounds that hinder germination. Sow fresh seed in a cold frame or outdoor seedbed. Stored seed needs three to four months of cold treatment. Even then, germination can take 18 months or longer.