Cornus rugosa, a deciduous shrub or small tree with simple, opposite leaves that are bright green in the spring, turn red or orange in the fall, and are important to wildlife

Cornus rugosa, also known as roundleaf dogwood or round-leaved dogwood, is a deciduous shrub or small tree that is native to northern parts of the eastern and central United States and southern parts of central and eastern Canada.

Cornus rugosa leaves are simple and opposite, 2-6 inches long by 1½-4 inches wide, broadly elliptical to nearly round, with an abruptly tapered tip and a rounded base. The upper surface is dark green with short appressed hairs and 6 to 9 evenly spaced, lateral veins per side, the lower surface paler with longer, soft hairs. Edges are smooth.

Cornus rugosa leaves are beautiful in all seasons. In the spring, they are a bright green and provide a lush backdrop for the white flowers. In the summer, they offer shade and a cool place to relax. In the fall, they turn a brilliant red or orange before falling to the ground.

Cornus rugosa leaves are also important to wildlife. Many species of birds and butterflies use the leaves for food and shelter. For example, the spring azure butterfly lays its eggs on the leaves of Cornus rugosa. The caterpillars that hatch from the eggs feed on the leaves and eventually pupate and emerge as adult butterflies.

Overall, Cornus rugosa is a valuable plant with beautiful and important leaves. It is a great choice for gardens and landscapes.

Ref.:

• https://bard.google.com/