Bunchberry | Cornus canadensis
Low growing member of the Cornaceae family that remains evergreen in most of the Pacific Northwest. Bunchberry is a petite slow growing rhizomatous groundcover, with 4-7 large leaves that whorl around the top of a short stem and forming a carpet-like mat. The inflorescence is a small cluster of 15-20 tiny purplish-white flowers subtended by four petal-like bracts, giving the appearance of one large flower. Fruit ripens into a tight cluster of coral berry-like drupes. Blooms in the summer between May and July, depending on location. In the fall, the leaves have red tinted veins and turn completely red.
Plant Details
| Habitats | Riparian Forests, Bottomland Forests, Mixed Hardwood-Conifer Forest or Woodland, Shrub Swamp, Shallow Marsh |
|---|---|
| Mature Height | 2-8" |
| Shade Preference | part sun |
| Soil Tolerance | Moist well-drained soils |
| Special Uses | Attracts birds. |
