what do dogwood seeds look like

2 min read 27-12-2024

Dogwoods, with their stunning blooms, are beloved ornamental trees and shrubs. But their beauty extends beyond the flowers; the seeds they produce are equally fascinating, albeit in a less showy way. Understanding what dogwood seeds look like can be helpful for propagation, identifying the species, and appreciating the full lifecycle of these captivating plants. This guide will delve into the appearance of dogwood seeds, exploring their variations across different species and providing helpful identification tips.

Understanding Dogwood Seed Structure

Dogwood seeds are not your typical seeds. They are encased within a fleshy fruit, often described as a drupe, similar to a cherry or olive. The fruit itself plays a crucial role in seed dispersal, attracting birds and other animals that consume it and then spread the seeds through their droppings.

Key Characteristics:

Shape and Size: Dogwood seeds are generally small, ranging from a few millimeters to about a centimeter in length. Their shape varies depending on the species, but they are often oblong or slightly curved.
Color: Mature dogwood seeds are usually dark brown or black. They might have slight variations in shade depending on the species and the level of ripeness.
Texture: The seed's outer coat is typically hard and relatively smooth.
Internal Structure: Inside the hard outer shell lies the embryo, the miniature plant waiting to germinate.

Variations in Dogwood Seed Appearance Across Species

While the general characteristics described above apply across many dogwood species, subtle differences exist. Here's a brief look at a few common types:

Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida) Seeds:

Flowering dogwood seeds are relatively small and oblong, with a dark brown to black color. They are encased within a bright red drupe that matures in late summer or early fall.

Pacific Dogwood (Cornus nuttallii) Seeds:

Similar to flowering dogwood seeds, but potentially slightly larger. The drupes are also typically red, though sometimes yellow or orange.

Kousa Dogwood (Cornus kousa) Seeds:

Kousa dogwood produces seeds within a larger, more elongated drupe which is typically a pinkish-red to reddish-purple hue. The seeds themselves are also slightly larger than those of the flowering dogwood.

Identifying Dogwood Seeds: A Practical Guide

Identifying dogwood seeds can be challenging without the context of the fruit. However, combining the following information will improve your chances:

Examine the Fruit: The type of drupe (color, size, shape) strongly indicates the dogwood species.
Seed Shape and Size: While subtle, the seed's shape and size can aid in differentiation between species.
Location: Knowing the geographic location where the seeds were found narrows down potential species.
Seed Coat Texture: Though subtle, the texture of the outer coat can offer clues.

Using Dogwood Seeds for Propagation

Dogwood seeds require stratification—a period of cold, moist storage—before they will germinate. This mimics the natural conditions they would experience over winter. Once stratified, they can be sown in a well-draining seed starting mix. Germination can take several months.

Conclusion

While dogwood seeds might not possess the dazzling beauty of the flowers, they play a vital role in the tree's lifecycle and are fascinating in their own right. By understanding their appearance and characteristics, you can better appreciate the intricate details of these magnificent trees and shrubs and successfully propagate new dogwoods from seed. Remember to always consult reputable resources for species-specific information and propagation techniques.