The Red Dogwood Plant

The red dogwood (Cornus sanguinea) is a species of dogwood family (Cornaceae), which is found throughout Europe except in the far north. Usually the plant grows as a shrub or small tree in hedgerows and woods. The plant prefers a calcareous soil.

The Dogwood is 4 m tall. The plant has a greenish gray and dark red twigs. Because the branches because of their color really stand out, the plant received its name Dogwood.

The leaves are oval and have a length of 4-10 cm. They have a pointed tip and striking curved veins. The herfskleur is pale green to dark red.

The flowers are small and white. There are four outstanding petals, four sepals and four stamens. The flowers stand in a window of four to five diameter at the tips of the branches.

The fruits are spherical and have a diameter of 6-8 mm. Maturing fade from green to shiny black. The flesh tastes bitter. They are berry-like drupe.

The tough, white wood of the Dogwood has several purposes, such as handle of forging hammers and percussion instruments. Steal of cornel wood are regarded as the best.

For the garden are several varieties in attendance, including Cornus sanguinea 'Midwinter Fire'. The beautiful light orange branches are more red on the tips, which explains the name of the variety. The older branches of the dogwood are losing their color and therefore it is advisable to apply rejuvenation pruning.




Source: http://nl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rode_kornoelje


See also: Sending Flowers, Online Florist