Native Trees of Coastal BC: The Pacific Dogwood
The Pacific Dogwood (Cornus Nuttallii)
Spotlighting our province’s floral emblem: the Pacific Dogwood, or Cornus nuttallii. This native tree blooms with striking white bracts from spring to summer. Its ecological and cultural significance runs deep in Coastal BC’s forests and communities.
A Provincial Icon
Officially adopted as BC’s floral emblem in 1956 after a province-wide campaign, the Pacific Dogwood represents the province’s natural beauty and resilience. Dogwoods thrive in sun or shade, and it’s white petals are actually bracts surrounding tiny true flowers.
Ecology & Culture
Dogwoods are a keystone species in Coastal BC ecosystems and cultural fabric. Their berries feed birds and mammals in fall, their flowers sustain pollinators in spring, and their bark and leaves support insects year-round. Coast Salish Peoples have used its bark for traditional medicines and dyes for generations.
Symbols of Resilience
Dogwoods’ adaptability makes them a symbol of strength in BC’s changing landscapes – they thrive in shade, tolerate poor soil, and can live over 100 years. However, they face threats like anthracnose fungus, which spreads in wet weather. Avoiding pruning in damp season can protect and help them thrive.
Photos by @jrrtj
