Cornus macrophylla is a species of deciduous tree or large shrub in the dogwood family (Cornaceae), native to the Himalayas, East Asia (including China, Japan, and Korea). It is commonly known as the Large-leaved dogwood, Big-leaf dogwood, or Himalayan dogwood. The specific epithet "macrophylla" is Latin for "large-leaved," referring to its distinctive foliage.
Description
''Cornus macrophylla'' typically grows as a medium-sized tree, reaching heights of 10 to 20 meters (33 to 66 ft), though it can sometimes be found as a large shrub.- Leaves: The most defining characteristic is its large, opposite, simple leaves, which are broadly ovate to elliptic, typically 8–18 cm (3–7 in) long and 5–10 cm (2–4 in) wide. They have prominent veins, often 5-7 pairs, arcuate towards the margin. The upper surface is dark green, while the underside is paler and sometimes pubescent. In autumn, the foliage turns attractive shades of reddish-purple.
- Flowers: Unlike many well-known dogwood species (e.g., ''Cornus florida'' or ''Cornus kousa''), ''Cornus macrophylla'' does not produce large, showy floral bracts. Instead, its true flowers are small, yellowish-white, and borne in dense, flat-topped clusters (cymes) 5–10 cm (2–4 in) across. These inflorescences appear in late spring to early summer, usually after the leaves have fully developed.
- Fruit: Following flowering, it produces globose drupes that are approximately 6–8 mm (0.24–0.31 in) in diameter. These fruits mature to a blue-black color in late summer to early autumn and are often borne in clusters. While generally considered unpalatable to humans, they are a food source for birds and other wildlife.
- Bark: The bark is grayish-brown, often somewhat fissured or shallowly blocky with age.
- Form: It typically develops a rounded crown with spreading branches.
Distribution and Habitat
''Cornus macrophylla'' is widely distributed across a broad geographical range in Asia. Its native habitat spans the Himalayas, from Pakistan eastward through Nepal, Bhutan, and into northern India, Myanmar, and various parts of East Asia, including mainland China (many provinces), Japan, and Korea.It typically grows in moist, temperate forests, often found in valleys, along streambanks, and on mountain slopes at elevations ranging from 500 to 3,000 meters (1,600 to 9,800 ft). It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of light conditions from full sun to partial shade.
Cultivation and Uses
- Ornamental Use: ''Cornus macrophylla'' is sometimes cultivated as an ornamental tree in gardens and parks for its attractive large leaves, good autumn color, and graceful form. While its flowers lack the showiness of bract-bearing dogwoods, the clusters of blue-black fruits can be visually appealing. It is a relatively hardy species, suitable for temperate climates.
- Timber: The wood of ''Cornus macrophylla'' is hard and durable, similar to other dogwoods. It has traditionally been used locally for tools, handles, and other small wooden items where strength is required.
- Traditional Medicine: In some regions within its native range, parts of the plant, such as the bark or fruit, have been used in traditional medicine, although scientific evidence supporting specific medicinal claims is limited.
- Wildlife: The fruits provide food for various bird species and other wildlife, contributing to biodiversity in its ecosystem.
Synonyms
- ''Swida macrophylla'' (Wall.) Pojark.
- ''Bothrocaryum macrophyllum'' (Wall.) Pojark.