Main Page | See live article | Alphabetical index

Cornaceae

Cornaceae
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Division: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Cornales
Family: Cornaceae
Genera
   Aucuba
   Cornus -- dogwood
   Griselinia
   Nyssa -- tupelo
The Cornaceae is a widespread family, mostly in the north temperate zone, in the order Cornales. The family mostly comprises woody shrubs and trees, in about fifteen genera, although which genera properly belong to this family is controversial. The Cornaceae is best known for two genera, Cornus, the dogwoods, and Nyssa, the tupelos. A third genus, Aucuba, or spotted laurel, is sometimes placed in its own family.

All members of the family have simple leaves and most have attractive fall foliage.