Why is the dogwood the Virginia state tree?

Why is the dogwood the Virginia state tree?

In 1918, the state floral emblem commonly known as the American dogwood (Cornus florida) was adopted. It was selected to foster a feeling of pride in our state and to stimulate an interest in the history and traditions of the Commonwealth.

Why is dogwood important?

Dogwoods are an important food source for wildlife and a significant component of the calcium cycle in eastern forests. Dogwood seeds, fruit, flowers, twigs, bark, and leaves are used as food by various animals.

What is special about a dogwood tree?

Flowering dogwood is widely used for landscaping because it attractive throughout the year, with these characteristics: The large flower bracts, which appear in April or May, are probably the most attractive feature. Cultivated trees are bred for showy bracts ranging from deep pink to white.

What is the Virginia state tree?

Flowering dogwood
Virginia/State tree

Why are they called dogwood trees?

Flowering dogwood is named for the showy spring flowers. The common name dogwood comes from one colonial description of the fruit as being edible but not fit for a dog. The common name dogwood is also thought to be from the use of the wood for skewers or “dogs.” Other common names include boxwood and cornel.

What is a fun fact about Virginia?

Virginia Facts and Trivia. Virginia was named for England’s “Virgin Queen,” Elizabeth I. The major cash crop of Virginia is tobacco and many of the people who live there earn their living from the tobacco industry. Jamestown, the first of the original 13 Colonies was founded for the purpose of silk cultivation.

Are dogwood trees protected in Virginia?

It is the state flower and tree, but it is not a protected species. You can cut it down if it is on your property.

What does the dogwood symbolize?

What Do Dogwood Flowers Symbolize? Dogwood flowers are most often used as symbols of rebirth. These flowers are closely connected to Christianity, so that meaning makes sense. However, dogwood flowers are also connected to durability and the ability to withstand various challenges in life.

What is the religious significance of the dogwood tree?

The legend goes like this: In Jesus’ time, dogwood trees grew in Jerusalem. Then, dogwoods were tall, large, and similar to oak trees in strength. Because of its mightiness, the tree was chopped down and made into the cross Jesus was crucified upon. This role gave the tree both a curse and a blessing.

Is dogwood native to Virginia?

Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida) is Virginia’s state tree and remains the most popular native despite recent trouble with disease and borer damage. Dogwood needs to be planted in the understory in order to benefit from the shade of larger trees.

What is the legend of the dogwood tree?

According to the story, it was the dogwood tree that provided the wood used to build the cross on which Jesus was crucified. It was cursed to forever be small, so that it would never grow large enough again for its wood to be used as a cross for a crucifixion.

When did the Dogwood become the state tree of Virginia?

The dogwood, (Cornaceae Cornus florida,) was adopted as the state tree on February 24, 1956. The dogwood is well distributed throughout the Commonwealth, and its beauty is symbolic of the many attractive features of Virginia.

Where does the flowering dogwood tree come from?

Of these four species, the flowering dogwood ( C. florida) and pagoda dogwood (C. alternifolia) are native to North America, in particular, to the eastern U.S. This article will discuss all four species of dogwoods, highlighting similarities, differences, and suitability to different sites.

What kind of trees bloom in spring in Virginia?

Spring in Virginia is the season of the dogwood, with flowering dogwood, Cornus florida, serving as both the official state tree and the state flower.

When do dogwood trees bloom in North Carolina?

The Dogwood flower bracts are 1-2 inches long and obovate in shape, usually with a cleft at the tip. There are clusters of bright red football shaped fruits, about a half inch long, following the Dogwood flowers and often remain until winter. Flowering occurs in late April and early May.