CORNUS NUTTALLII Meaning and
Definition
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Cornus nuttallii, commonly known as Pacific dogwood, is a species of flowering plant belonging to the family Cornaceae. It is a medium-sized deciduous tree that is native to the western parts of North America, specifically the coastal regions of California, Oregon, and British Columbia.
The tree typically reaches heights of 15-30 meters and has a narrow crown with spreading branches. The leaves are opposite, ovate to elliptical in shape, and have prominent veins. In spring, the tree produces clusters of small, creamy-white flowers with four petals that form a showy inflorescence known as an umbel. These flowers are surrounded by large, petal-like bracts that are typically white but can show shades of pink or even green. The bracts, which mimic petals, are what make Pacific dogwood highly sought after for ornamental purposes.
During the summer, the tree forms drupe-like fruits that are initially green but turn bright red as they mature. These fruits are an essential food source for birds and other wildlife. Pacific dogwood prefers moist, well-drained soils and generally grows in shady understory habitats of mixed coniferous forests.
The Pacific dogwood is highly valued for its attractive appearance, with its vibrant flowers and colorful fruit. Due to habitat loss and a fungus known as anthracnose, the tree's populations have declined in recent years, leading it to be classified as a species of conservation concern. Efforts are underway to protect and restore Pacific dogwood populations to ensure the survival of this beautiful native tree.
Etymology of CORNUS NUTTALLII
The word "Cornus nuttallii" has its etymology rooted in Latin and English, with specific references to the individuals involved in its discovery and classification.
The genus name "Cornus" comes from the Latin word "cornu", meaning "horn". This refers to the hard and durable wood of the dogwood tree. The specific epithet "nuttallii" is named after Thomas Nuttall (1786-1859), a renowned English botanist and zoologist who extensively studied and collected plants in North America.
So, "Cornus nuttallii" can be translated as "Nuttall's dogwood", honoring the contributions of Thomas Nuttall to the field of botany.
