The Cornus genus, commonly known as dogwood trees, features many species popular across North America for their ornamental value and showy spring flowers. These trees, including the widely planted Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida) and Kousa Dogwood (Cornus kousa), produce distinctive berries in the autumn. Concerns about human toxicity often arise due to these berries, requiring a look at the specific species and the effects of ingestion to determine the actual risk.
Toxicity Status for Common Dogwood Species
The most common ornamental dogwood species are generally not classified as highly toxic plants that pose a life-threatening danger to humans. The native Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida) is sometimes labeled as mildly toxic due to its unpleasant taste and potential for minor stomach irritation, not severe poisoning. It is better described as inedible rather than a dangerous toxin. The Kousa Dogwood (Cornus kousa), an Asian species, is different because its fruit is widely considered edible. The pulp of the Kousa dogwood fruit is safe for consumption and is sometimes used in jams or jellies.
Specific Components and Potential Effects
The primary concern for human exposure is the consumption of the bright red berries produced by species like the Flowering Dogwood. These berries contain compounds that result in a bitter taste and can irritate the digestive system. Ingesting a large quantity typically results in transient and minor gastrointestinal distress. Symptoms usually include nausea, vomiting, or mild diarrhea, which resolve without medical intervention. The leaves, bark, and wood of the dogwood tree are not considered toxic, though the material is largely indigestible.
Dogwood Look-Alikes and Misidentification
The main public safety concern surrounding dogwood berries often stems from misidentification, as several highly toxic plants produce similar red or white berries. One common look-alike is Pokeweed (Phytolacca americana), which produces dark purple berries on reddish stems. All parts of the pokeweed plant are poisonous to humans and pets, posing a genuine danger if confused with harmless dogwood berries. Another plant often mistaken for dogwood is Bittersweet Nightshade (Solanum dulcamara), which produces small, highly toxic, red, tomato-like berries. White Baneberry (Actaea pachypoda), known for its distinctive white berries with a black dot, also requires careful distinction. It is always prudent to correctly identify any wild plant before assuming its safety.