When it comes to identifying Cornus alba , there are several key characteristic to look out for . Let ’s plunk into the detail !
1 . Overall Appearance : Cornus alba is a deciduous shrub that typically grows to a stature of 6 - 10 feet and spreads about the same breadth . It has a multi - stemmed growth habit , with arching and erect branches that make a graceful and elegant look . The bush has a rounded shape , making it a great choice for sum structure and interest to your garden or landscape .
2 . Stem Color : One of the most distinctive feature of speech of Cornus alba is its stem color , especially during the fall and wintertime months . The stem move around a vibrant red chromaticity , which tot a stunning pop of color to the winter landscape painting . In the summertime , the stems take on a green - red shade , providing optical interest throughout the class . This color edition is a primal identifying equipment characteristic of Cornus alba .
3 . lenticel : Another feature that helps identify Cornus alba is the presence of prominent lenticel on the stems . Lenticels are small , corky structure on the bark of woody plants that let for gun exchange . In Cornus alba , these lenticels are often white or tan in color and can be seen dot the stems . They provide an extra visual clue when render to identify this bush .
4 . Leaf Characteristics : The leaves of Cornus alba are mere and polar , meaning they are coif in pairs along the stems . They are typically dark green in color , creating a lovely contrast against the vivacious red-faced stems . One unique feature of the leaves is their wrinkled appearance on the upper surface , which adds grain to the overall foliation . Observing these leaf machine characteristic can help reassert the identification of Cornus alba .
In addition to these primal identifying features , it ’s worth note that Cornus alba is also known for its clusters of humble blanched flowers that bloom in later outflow or early summertime . These flowers give way to humble white berries that remain into the fall , supply nutrient for dame . While these machine characteristic can be helpful in confirming the identification , they may not always be present or easily visible .
Personal Experience : I remember coming across a beautiful Cornus alba shrub during a wintertime walk in a local botanic garden . The vivacious cherry stems stood out against the snowy landscape painting , and the lenticel append an interesting grain to the overall coming into court . I was also struck by the wrinkled leaves , which add together a singular touch to the shrub . It was a wonderful example of how Cornus alba can add colour and interest to a winter garden .
To sum up , name Cornus alba imply looking for its multi - stemmed growth use , red stems during fall and winter , and greenish - carmine stem during summer . The mien of prominent lenticels on the fore and the crease appearing of the dark green leaves are additional characteristics to observe out for . keep these feature will help you confidently key out Cornus alba in your garden or landscape .
Caroline Bates
