Overview
Cornus rugosa Lam., also known as round-leaved dogwood, is a deciduous shrub native to Eastern North America. It belongs to the family of Cornaceae and can grow up to a height of 4-6 ft.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known by various names such as round-leaved dogwood, rough-leaf dogwood, wrinkled dogwood, and swamp dogwood.
Appearance
The plant has an irregular shape and grows in a multi-stemmed, spreading form. It has smooth bark which is grayish-brown in color. The leaves of the plant are round and have a smooth texture. They are generally 2-5 inches in size and are glossy green in color during the season of growth. The color changes to reddish-purple during the autumn season. The plant generally blooms from May to June, producing clusters of white flowers that have a diameter of around 2-2.5 inches. The fruit of the plant is a small, whitish, and round drupe that appears in August and September.
Uses
The plant is widely used in landscaping and ornamental purposes, mainly for its attractive flowers and foliage. Its berries are also consumed by various bird species and small mammals. Additionally, the plant has been used traditionally for medicinal purposes, including treating digestive and respiratory ailments. Ethnobotanically the bark of the plant was used to make baskets, while its hard wood was used to make tools.
Overall, Cornus rugosa Lam. is a beautiful and useful shrub that adds to the aesthetic value and biodiversity of Eastern North America.Light Requirements
Cornus rugosa Lam. is a full-sun to partial-shade plant. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight exposure to grow healthily. However, it can also tolerate partial-shade conditions where it receives limited direct sunlight during the day.
Temperature Requirements
Cornus rugosa Lam. grows best under cool temperatures, but it can withstand hot and humid conditions as well. The plant is winter hardy and can tolerate temperatures as low as -40°F. During summer, it prefers a temperature range between 65°F to 75°F. The plant's growth rate usually slows down during the hottest months, and it is best to water it regularly during this period to ensure healthy growth.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers moist, well-draining soil. Cornus rugosa Lam. can tolerate different types of soil, including sand, loam, and clay. However, it thrives in slightly acidic soil with a pH range between 5.0 and 6.5. It is essential to maintain the soil's moisture level, especially during hot months, to promote healthy growth.
Cultivation Methods
Cornus rugosa, commonly known as the round-leaved dogwood, is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to 2 meters tall. It prefers moist soil but will tolerate well-drained soils with good organic matter. Plant in early spring or fall. When planting, dig a hole that is twice the width of the plant's rootball and deep enough to accommodate it. Loosen the soil, add compost, and water thoroughly after planting.
Watering Needs
Cornus rugosa requires consistently moist soil. Water deeply once a week during the growing season, more frequently during hot or dry spells. To avoid root rot, ensure that the soil is well-drained and not waterlogged.
Fertilization
Fertilize once a year in early spring with an all-purpose balanced fertilizer. Use a slow-release form of fertilizer to provide sustained nutrition throughout the growing season. Cornus rugosa is not heavy feeder and does not require a lot of fertilizer.
Pruning
Prune Cornus rugosa in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Remove any damaged, diseased, or dead wood. To encourage new growth and maintain the shrub's shape, cut back one-third of the old growth to the ground level. Thin out the remaining branches as needed, leaving the strongest and healthiest ones. Avoid cutting back too far or too often, as this can lead to weak or spindly growth.
Propagation of Cornus rugosa Lam.
Cornus rugosa Lam., commonly known as round-leaf dogwood, is a deciduous shrub native to North America. It is valued for its attractive foliage, showy flowers, and decorative fruit. Propagation of Cornus rugosa can be accomplished by several different methods.
Seed Propagation
One of the common methods of propagating Cornus rugosa is from seeds. The seeds of round-leaf dogwood can be collected in the fall from mature fruits. Once collected, they should be cleaned and stratified for 3 to 4 months before sowing. Stratification can be accomplished by placing the seeds in a plastic bag with damp sand and storing them in a refrigerator.
After stratification, the seeds can be sown in a seed tray with a well-drained, sterile soil mix. The tray should be placed in a warm, bright location where the seeds will receive indirect sunlight. Keep the soil moist and the seedlings should emerge within a few weeks. Once the seedlings have produced several true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots or containers.
Cuttings Propagation
Cornus rugosa can also be propagated by taking stem cuttings. In the late summer or early fall, take cuttings of new wood that is at least 6 inches long. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting and dip the end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-drained, sterile soil mix and keep it moist. Place the container in a warm, bright location out of direct sunlight.
Rooting should occur in 3 to 4 weeks. Once rooted, the cuttings can be transplanted into individual pots or containers and grown on until they are large enough to plant in the landscape.
Layering Propagation
Another method of propagating Cornus rugosa is by layering. In the early spring or late fall, bend a low branch of the parent plant to the ground and cover it with soil. The section of the branch covered with soil should be scraped or wounded to help encourage rooting. Keep the soil moist and the new plant should begin to root in several weeks. Once rooted, the new plant can be transplanted into its permanent location.
Cornus rugosa Lam. can be propagated by seed, cuttings, or layering. Whichever method you choose, make sure to use healthy parent plants and provide the proper growing conditions for the best results.
Disease and Pest Management for Cornus rugosa Lam.
The Cornus rugosa Lam., commonly known as roundleaf dogwood or roughleaf dogwood, is a popular ornamental shrub in gardens and landscapes. However, like all plants, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can affect its growth and appearance. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant, along with suggestions for managing them:
Common Diseases
Leaf Spot: This disease is caused by fungi and appears as small, circular, or irregular-shaped spots on the leaves. The affected leaves may turn yellow or brown and fall prematurely. To manage leaf spot, remove and destroy infected leaves and debris from around the plant. Avoid wetting the foliage when watering and promote air circulation around the plant.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that forms a white or gray powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. This disease can cause the leaves to twist and distort, and ultimately die. To manage powdery mildew, remove and destroy infected leaves. Remove any weeds or other plants growing near the shrub that may be creating a damp and humid environment. Ensure that the plant gets enough sunlight and has good air circulation.
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a disease caused by fungi that causes brown, sunken lesions on stems and leaves. The leaves may also turn yellow or brown and fall prematurely. To manage anthracnose, prune and destroy infected plant parts. Use sanitized pruning tools to prevent further spread of the disease. Maintain proper plant nutrition, watering, and drainage to prevent stress and create a healthy environment for the plant.
Common Pests
Scale insects: Scale insects are small, stationary, and are covered with a protective waxy coating. They cause damage by sucking the sap out of the leaves, stems, and branches of the plant. To manage scale insects, prune and destroy heavily infested branches. Spray the plant with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap, following the manufacturer's instructions.
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can suck the sap out of the plant, deform leaves, and transmit viruses. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to knock them off. Handpicking can also be an effective solution for smaller populations. You can also apply insecticidal soap or neem oil, following the manufacturer's instructions.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larvae of moths and butterflies, and they can chew holes on leaves or even defoliate the plant. To manage caterpillars, handpicking may be a good solution for smaller populations. You can also apply Bacillus thuringiensis or spinosad, following the manufacturer's instructions.
By paying attention to early warning signs and regularly inspecting your Cornus rugosa, you can effectively manage diseases and pests before they get out of control, leading to a healthier and more vigorous plant in your garden or landscape.
