Cornus racemosa aka Panicled Dogwood

Cornus racemosa, or gray dogwood, belongs to the dogwood family. This native shrub grows across central and eastern North America. Its range covers parts of Canada and the United States. It grows near streams, ponds, meadows, and woodland edges. It also grows on rocky ground and beside roads. The plant drops its leaves each fall and forms thickets.

In gardens, it reaches 10–15 feet [3–4.6 metres] tall and wide. Some shrubs stay near 4 feet [1.2 metres] tall. Small tree forms can reach 27 feet [8.2 metres]. Many upright stems form a broad, uneven clump. Root suckers let one plant spread into a colony. Older plants may grow sparse near the base. Old bark turns gray or gray-brown, with small lenticels. Young stems range from green to red or orange-brown. Simple leaves grow in pairs along the stems. They have narrow, oval shapes and smooth, slightly wavy edges. Their dark upper sides contrast with pale undersides. Short, stiff hairs give the leaves a rough feel. Fall leaves turn reddish purple, though the display varies.

Small, cream-white flowers open from May through June. They form rounded clusters at the ends of branches. Each flower has four petals and a green-tipped style. Bees and butterflies visit for nectar and pollen. Round white drupes follow from August through October. Each fruit holds one or two stones. Birds and several small mammals eat the fruit. Red or pink fruit stalks remain after the fruit drops. These stalks add color into fall and early winter. Dense growth gives birds nesting sites and shelter.

Gray dogwood grows in full sun or partial shade. It also tolerates deeper shade, according to Oregon State University. It prefers moist soil but handles wet or dry ground. It grows in poor soils and tolerates city air pollution. Well-drained soil suits garden plants, with moderate water needs. Sources place it in USDA zones 4–8. Its low care needs suit borders, screens, and native gardens. It also fits rain gardens and pond edges. Its spreading roots help hold soil on banks.

Remove root suckers where spreading growth would cause trouble. Older shrubs may benefit from pruning to renew growth. Serious pest and disease problems are uncommon. Leaf spot and scale can occur on this species. Dogwood bud galls seldom cause much harm. Deer and rabbits may browse leaves and branches.