Shrubs or trees; rhizomes absent. Branches and leaves opposite. Inflorescences capitula; bracts 4–6, well developed, petaloid, subtending inflorescence and surrounding or enclosing it over winter. Pedicels absent. Drupes distinct; stone apex dimpled to rounded.

Distribution

North America, Mexico

Discussion

Species 2 (2 in the flora).

Selected References

None.

Lower Taxa

Cornus florida, Cornus nuttallii

Key

1	Drupes angular in cross section, closely appressed to each other; petaloid bracts 4–6 per inflorescence; w North America.	Cornus nuttallii
1	Drupes round in cross section, spreading from each other; petaloid bracts 4 per inflorescence; e North America.	Cornus florida