Text Box: An understory tree that occurs on well drained upland soils, and on deep well drained soils along streams and on lower slopes. Text Box: Cornus florida L.; Flowering Dogwood Text Box: N C STATE UNIVERSITY

Close up of the bark.

Distinctive twigs of Cornus florida; note how the branching is opposite.

Four showy white bract surround the not yet blooming flower cluster.

Leaves and immature fruits.  When the fruit is ripe it will be bright red.