About the Dogwood -
Greytwig :
The Gray Dogwood is a deciduous shrub which
typically occurs in moist or rocky ground along
streams, ponds, wet meadows, glade and prairie
margins, thickets and rocky bluffs. It grows 10-15'
tall and features white flowers borne in terminal
racemes (hence the species name of racemosa) in late
spring and grayish-green, elliptic to lance-shaped
leaves (2-4" long). Foliage turns an interesting
dusky purplish red in fall. Terminal stems holding
the flowers are distinctively red and provide
interesting contrast to the clusters of small white
berries which form after the flowers have dropped.
Red stem color is more easily seen after the
fruits are gone, and red color often persists into
early winter. Excellent when planted in groups and
left alone to spread in naturalized areas or native
plant gardens. Also effective in shrub borders,
along streams or ponds or near buildings or when
planted as a screen. Can be particularly useful
because of its ability to grow in poor soils. Easily
grown in average, medium wet, well-drained soil in
full sun to part shade. Tolerant of city air
pollution.