Etymology: Cornus: Latin cornu for "horn," probably referring to the hardness of the wood
Plants: perennial, 3'-10' tall shrub; stems purplish twigs
Leaves: opposite, stalked, ovate-oval, 1"-5" long
Flowers: white, 4-parted; inflorescence 1 1/2" - 2 1/2 " a compact, flat, branched cluster (cyme); blooms May-June
Fruits: blue berry
Habitat: moist; woods, riverbanks
Conservation Status: Native

Floristic Rating: Coefficient of Conservatism = 4, Wetland Indicator = FACW+ USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos University of Wisconsin - Green Bay: Shrubs: Photos, descriptions, information USGS - Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center: Wetland Plants and Plant Communities of Minnesota and Wisconsin Dan Tenaglia's The Missouri Flora: Fabulous photographs; detailed descriptions; color and leave arrangement key.