Mountain Dogwood

Mountain Dogwood (Cornus nuttallii) is a deciduous tree native to the Pacific Northwest of North America, ranging from British Columbia to California and extending into Idaho and Washington. This plant is known for its ornamental value and edible fruit, making it a valuable addition to gardens and landscapes. It thrives in light to partial shade with moist or dry conditions, preferring soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). Mountain Dogwood can grow up to 10 meters tall and is hardy in zones 6-8. One distinctive feature of the plant is its white flowers that appear in spring, followed by small red berries that ripen in late summer. These berries are edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations, making them a valuable food source for both wildlife and humans. While the plant is not medicinal, its fruit offers a natural sweet treat and can be harvested for use in jams, jellies, or simply enjoyed fresh. The tree adapts well to a pH between 4.9 and 7.3 and can be grown from seeds or cuttings.