Genus guide
Cornus — 27 species
Cornus is a diverse genus of dogwoods ranging from compact shrubs like red-twig dogwood (grown for vivid winter stems) to multi-stemmed ornamentals such as Siberian dogwood and common dogwood. Most species thrive in full sun to partial shade, with woodland types preferring dappled light and stem-colour cultivars performing best in open positions. They need consistently moist, well-drained, neutral to slightly acidic soil and roughly one to two inches of water per week. Toxicity varies across the genus, so check each species before introducing one to a pet household.
All Cornus species we cover
- Cherokee Chief Dogwood
- China Girl dogwood
- Cloud Nine Dogwood
- common dogwood
- Cornelian Cherry 'Elegant'
- Cornelian Cherry 'Jolico'
- Cornelian Cherry Dogwood
- Cornus kousa 'Miss Satomi'
- Dogwood
- Dogwood 'Eddie's White Wonder'
- Flowering Dogwood
- Flowering Dogwood 'Cherokee Chief'
- Giant Dogwood
- Japanese Cornel Dogwood
- Kousa Dogwood
- Milky Way Kousa Dogwood
- Pacific Dogwood
- Pagoda Dogwood
- Pink Flowering Dogwood
- Red Osier Dogwood
- Red Twig Dogwood 'Arctic Fire'
- red-twig dogwood
- Satomi Dogwood
- Siberian dogwood
- Silver Pagoda Dogwood
- Wolf Eyes Kousa Dogwood
- Yellow-Twig Dogwood
Cornus — frequently asked questions
Are Cornus plants toxic to cats and dogs?
Most Cornus are pet-safe. Of the 27 Cornus species we cover, 14 are non-toxic on the ASPCA list and 13 carry a toxic or mildly-toxic rating. Even so, confirm the individual species before trusting it around pets.
How much light do Cornus plants need?
Most Cornus do best in bright indirect light. If yours stretches toward the window or loses its variegation it wants more light; scorched or bleached leaves mean it is getting too much direct sun.
Are Cornus easy to care for?
Cornus are moderate to grow: the main requirement is a genuinely bright spot out of harsh midday sun. Get the light right and the rest of their care follows.
How many Cornus varieties are there?
Growli's care library covers 27 Cornus species and varieties — browse them all above. They share a similar light, water and soil pattern, so once you learn one Cornus, the rest follow closely.
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