Cornus canadensis

(Bunchberry Dogwood)

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Cornus canadensis, Peak 7, Breckenridge, Summit Co. 7133

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Cornus canadensis, Peaks Trail, Breckenridge, Summit Co. 5623

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Cornus canadensis, Peaks Trail, Breckenridge, Summit Co. 5508

Scientific Name Cornus canadensis USDA PLANTS Symbol COCA13
Common Name Bunchberry Dogwood ITIS Taxonomic Serial No. 27816
Family Cornaceae (Dogwood) SEINet
Reference
Click Here
Description Life zones and habitat: Foothills to montane (6900 to 10000 ft.); moist, shady areas, streamsides.
Plant: Slow-growing herbaceous subshrub 2 to 8 inches tall, generally forming a carpet-like mat; slender and unbranched stems.
Leaves: Clusters of 6 elliptic to ovate leaves in a terminal whorl; 2 larger blades up to 3 inches long and 4 smaller blades.
Inflorescence: Multiple very tiny white flowers less than 1/10 inch across with 4 petals, surrounded by four large showy white bracts, broadly ovate and 3/8 to 1 inch long with parallel veins.
References: "Flora of Colorado" by Jennifer Ackerfield, "A Guide to Rocky Mountain Plants" by Nelson and Williams and Wikipedia.
BONAP Distribution Map


Map Color Key
Colorado Status:
Native
RARE

© Tom Lebsack 2024

Banner photo: Castilleja rhexifolia and a brewing storm over the San Juan Mountains