Round-leaf dogwood (Cornus rugosa, Encycl. 2: 115 (1786))

Family: Cornaceae

Author: Lam.

Bibliography: Encycl. 2: 115 (1786)

Year: 1786

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Cornus

Vegetable: False

Observations: C. & E. Canada to NC. & E. U.S.A.

Description

The Round-leaf Dogwood, scientifically known as Cornus rugosa, is a distinguished member of the Cornaceae family. A species recognized since its formal description in 1786 by the esteemed botanist Lam., this plant has carved a unique niche both in ecological landscapes and horticultural contexts.

Cornus rugosa is distinguished primarily by its characteristic round leaves, which provide the species with its common name. These leaves not only stand out due to their shape but also contribute to the plant’s aesthetic appeal with their smooth margins and pronounced veining. The foliage creates a lush, green presence that can add a touch of elegance to wooded areas and garden spaces alike.

The natural range of the Round-leaf Dogwood extends across central and eastern Canada to the Northeastern and Eastern United States, indicating its adaptability to various climatic conditions typical of these regions. Whether thriving in the rich soils of dense forests or the diverse environments of understories, Cornus rugosa is a resilient species that has successfully colonized a wide swath of North America.

Ecologically, this dogwood species plays an important role. It provides shelter and food for various wildlife, including birds that feast on its berries. The plant’s flowers, usually a creamy white, bloom in clusters and attract pollinators, thus facilitating the critical process of pollination and contributing to the biodiversity of its habitat.

Cultivators and gardeners value the Round-leaf Dogwood not just for its visual appeal but also for its robustness and ability to thrive in various soil types, from well-drained to slightly moist conditions. Its relatively low maintenance requirements make it an attractive option for those looking to incorporate native species into their landscaping projects while supporting local ecosystems.

In summary, Cornus rugosa, or the Round-leaf Dogwood, is a venerable species with much to offer. From its striking foliage and seasonal blooms to its ecological importance and adaptability, it remains a celebrated and widely respected plant that continues to be significant in both natural and cultivated environments.

Common Names

Eng: round-leaf dogwood, roundleaf dogwood, round-leaved dogwood
Deu: rundblättriger hartriegel
Fra: cornouiller rugueux
En: Round-leaf dogwood, Roundleaf dogwood, Round-leaved dogwood
Fr: Cornouiller rugueux
De: Rundblättriger Hartriegel
Fa: زغال‌اخته گردبرگ

Synonyms

• Cornus circinnata (Cham. & Schltdl.)
• Cornus circinata (L’Hér.)
• Cornus circinata f. variegata (Allabach)
• Cornus virginiana (Lam.)
• Cornus tomentosula (DC.)
• Cornus tomentulosa (Michx.)
• Cornus rugosa f. eucycla (Fernald)
• Thelycrania rugosa ((Lam.) Pojark.)
• Cornus tomentosa (Steud.)
• Cornus verrucosa (G.Nicholson)
• Swida rugosa ((Lam.) Rydb.)

Distribution

• Connecticut (native)
• Delaware (native)
• Illinois (native)
• Indiana (native)
• Iowa (native)
• Maine (native)
• Manitoba (native)
• Maryland (native)
• Masachusettes (native)
• Michigan (native)
• Minnesota (native)
• New Brunswick (native)
• New Hampshire (native)
• New Jersey (native)
• New York (native)
• Nova Scotia (native)
• Ohio (native)
• Ontario (native)
• Pennsylvania (native)
• Prince Edward I. (native)
• Québec (native)
• Rhode I. (native)
• Tennessee (native)
• Vermont (native)
• Virginia (native)
• West Virginia (native)
• Wisconsin (native)
• Newfoundland (introduced)

Additional Images

Leaf

Taken Jun 2, 2020 by Aaron Harp (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 2, 2020 by Aaron Harp (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 14, 2021 by Noémie Labranche-Montion (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 18, 2021 by jenyfer Renaud (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 11, 2020 by tan lan (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Sep 19, 2022 by Raphaël Bourgois (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 25, 2022 by Crisi Ellswo (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 29, 2020 by D S (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 13, 2021 by nancy deziel (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Jun 1, 2021 by Michael Marchand (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 8, 2022 by jonawel (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 3, 2021 by rlbk (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 2, 2020 by Aaron Harp (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Aug 8, 2015 by EOL − Charlie Hohn (cc-by-nc)

Taken Aug 6, 2021 by marianne engard (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 14, 2016 by EOL − owenclarkin (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Howard, R.A. (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jun 2, 2020 by Aaron Harp (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken May 8, 2022 by jonawel (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Howard, R.A. (cc-by-nc-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3082245)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:271659-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Cornus rugosa Lam.)

Specifications

Growth form>: Multiple Stem

Growth habit>: Tree, Shrub

Growth rate>: Moderate

Growth

Ph maximum: 7.8

Ph minimum: 6.4