Uses for the Dogwood Tree
The common dogwood tree (Cornus florida) features small yellow flowers in clusters surrounded by white bracts -- a modified leaf growing on the stem. Other cultivars include the red and pink flowering dogwood. Dogwood reaches heights of about 20 feet, putting it in a small tree or large shrub category. The wood from this ornamental tree is close grained and light colored. Does this Spark an idea?
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Landscaping
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The dogwood is used primarily as an ornamental tree in landscaping. The dogwood adapts well to different soil types and is low maintenance. Landscapers use the dogwood around building foundations, close to decks and patios and as a contrast or specimen plant in raised flower beds. The dogwood prefers dappled shade, so it does well near to larger trees in a grouping.
Wood
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In the early 1900s the lumber from dogwood was used in the construction of buildings, however, this practice has waned through the years. The dogwood is used for small pulleys, wedges, tool handles, mallet heads and spools. Other uses for the wood include golf heads and jeweler's or engraver's blocks.
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Wildlife
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Various wildlife feed off the fruit, seeds and flowers of the dogwood. The fruit, although toxic to humans, is a favorite of over 36 species of birds, such as wild turkey, ruffed grouse and the bob-white quail. Mammals including foxes, beaver, chipmunks, squirrels and black bears also enjoy the fruit of the dogwood. The bark, twigs and leaves provide fodder for rabbits and deer.
Medicinal
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The chemical compounds of the dogwood include gallic acid, gum, tanic acid, lignin, potassa and resin. The medicinal properties of the dogwood are from the bark. Medicinal uses of dogwood extract include an emetic to induce vomiting and as an astringent to cause the muscles or skin to contract. A tincture made from the bark, flowers and fruit is used to relieve chills and reduce fever.
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References
- Photo Credit Comstock/Comstock/Getty Images
