American Dogwood: Cornus stolonifera

This Other names: Dogberry, Red-stem Dogwood

American Dogwood is in the same family as the Dwarf Dogwood, (Cornaceae), yet people use them very differently. Not only are the Dogwood plants different heights, but their berries very greatly in the edibility.

Medicinal Use: Dogwood, as the name implies have been used for washing (with the red bark), mangy dogs. The dried bark and roots are used as an herbal remedy for colds and fevers.

Food Use: While its possible to eat the other Cornus species, the American Dogwood SHOULD BE AVOIDED. If the fruit is white, do not eat it. The bark that is dried can be used for many purposes but, definitely don’t use the fresh bark as it’s a purgative.