fruitpal@elmoreroots.com or 1-802-888-7668
Elmore, Vermont
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Cornus alternifolia. Shade tolerant understory shrub that grows up to 25 ft tall. Pale yellow flowers in May turn into attractive blue-black fruits. Branches grow in irregular tiers forming a somewhat horizontal plant. Leaves turn red in fall. Protect it from heat and drought by planting it on a forest edge.
Used as nesting sites by birds such as robins, waxwings, red-eyed vireos, purple finches and more. Birds as well as mammals enjoy eating the fruit. Beavers will eat the branches if planted near their homes. Host plant to many species of butterflies, and the blooms attract several species of specialized bees.