Swamp Dogwood (Cornus foemina), also known as Stiff Cornel, is a versatile deciduous tree that typically grows 10 to 30 feet in height and 10 to 20 feet in width. In the spring, it produces showy white flowers that enhance its visual appeal, followed by blue fruit that appears in summer to early fall. This hardy, hurricane wind-resistant tree is suitable for planting in a range of light conditions, from full sun to full shade. It thrives in moist, wet, or well-drained soils, including loam, sand, and organic muck, and prefers an acidic pH.
The Swamp Dogwood is ecologically significant, serving as a larval host for the Cecropia silkmoth and Spring Azure butterfly. Its fruit is a valuable food source for birds and small mammals, making it an excellent addition to wildlife-friendly gardens or natural areas. With its adaptability and ecological importance, the Swamp Dogwood is a practical and appealing choice for enhancing biodiversity in various landscapes.
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