Tree Tuesday- Flowering Dogwood Tree

Almost two days of no internet service and a migraine has kept me off of the computer. It is good to be back.

Tree Tuesday initiated by @old-guy-photos

Flowering Dogwood Tree

There are different species of Dogwood Trees that can be found all over the United States. They come in different sizes and usually have white or pink blooms; a few are red. This species pictured here is the Spring Flowering Dogwood Tree with the scientific name "Cornus florida." This is a medium size tree with white blooms. Before the blooms turn white, they have a light green tint to them with a green center. The blooms open before the leaves sprout.

The white blooms that look like petals, are not flowers. They are called "bracts" which is a type of leaf. The bracts surround the small, green center which is the actual cluster of flowers. When the flower clusters (in the center) open, they become a greenish-yellow color.

The bracts protect the flower clusters while they are forming. The bracts will unfold once the flower clusters are ready to open. These bracts are in the process of unfolding.

One week passed and you can now see the difference. There are white bracts that are completely open, and there are many leaves.

This photo shows the size of the tree branches.

The following photos are from a different flowering dogwood tree. The flower clusters have opened and are now a greenish-yellow color.

This is my favorite photo, showing 2 bracts that haven't unfolded yet.

After insects pollinate the flower clusters, they will produce small red berries in autumn. Also, the green leaves turn red and purple in autumn. There are approximately 36 different bird species that eat the berries. The dogwood flowers, berries, leaves, twigs and bark are all eaten by squirrels, rabbits, chipmunks, skunks, foxes, deer and bears.

The wood from dogwoods is strong, dense, and resists splitting which was perfect for making wheels, machine bearings and hay forks in the past. Today, the wood is used in the making of tool handles, walking canes and golf club heads.

Thanks for looking!

Information Source: gardenguides.com, facts.net

Image Source: 100% own work.