Dogwood trees, celebrated for their distinctive blossoms, are a common sight in many landscapes. Their showy display often prompts curiosity about whether these attractive components are safe for consumption. This article clarifies the edibility of dogwood flowers and other parts of the tree.
Edibility of Dogwood Flowers
The common flowering dogwood (Cornus florida) produces large, four-petaled bracts surrounding small, inconspicuous greenish-yellow true flowers. While these showy bracts and true flowers are generally considered non-toxic, they are not typically consumed for culinary purposes. Their taste is often described as bitter or astringent, making them unpalatable. The flowers possess properties similar to the root bark, which was historically used by Native American tribes for medicinal purposes, such as reducing fever. Despite these traditional uses, Cornus florida flowers are not a common food source and lack significant nutritional value.
Other Dogwood Tree Parts
Beyond the flowers, other parts of the common flowering dogwood (Cornus florida), including its berries, leaves, and bark, have varying degrees of edibility or toxicity. The bright red berries are glossy and typically found in clusters of three or four. These berries are widely considered mildly toxic to humans if consumed in large quantities and are not recommended for consumption. While some sources state they are not truly poisonous but rather bitter and unpalatable, others warn against human consumption due to their potential toxicity. Conversely, these berries are a popular food source for numerous bird species and other wildlife due to their high fat content.
It is important to distinguish Cornus florida from other dogwood species, such as Cornus mas (Cornelian cherry) and Cornus kousa (Kousa dogwood), which produce edible fruits. The berries of Cornus mas are tart, cherry-like, and can be used for jams, jellies, or syrups when ripe. Kousa dogwood fruits are also edible and often described as having a sweet taste, resembling a raspberry. The leaves and bark of Cornus florida have historical uses in traditional medicine, with the root bark used as a fever reducer. However, these parts are not intended for general consumption.
Safe Foraging and Identification
Accurate identification is paramount before consuming any wild plant. The common flowering dogwood (Cornus florida) is identified by its showy, notched bracts surrounding true flowers in early spring, oval-shaped leaves with prominent curving veins, and mature bark resembling alligator skin. In contrast, Kousa dogwood (Cornus kousa) has pointed bracts and a single, spherical, strawberry-like fruit. Cornelian cherry dogwood (Cornus mas) produces small yellow flowers before its leaves appear, and has elongated red berries.
When foraging, always adhere to safety guidelines. Only harvest plants you are certain you have correctly identified, avoiding areas near roadsides or pollutants. Wash any foraged items thoroughly before consumption. Even generally safe plants can cause allergic reactions, so consume a small amount initially. When in doubt, do not consume it.