41. Cornus nuttallii – Pacific Dogwood
Scientific Name: Cornus nuttallii
Nativity: Western North America
Interesting Info:
Named after the English botanist/zoologist Thomas Nuttall, the pacific dogwood has been used in many traditional medicines. The bark contains quinine, an anti parasitic chemical commonly used to treat malaria. Tea made from the bark was traditionally used fevers as well as stomach and liver problems. Bark has also been used to create brown dye. Pacific dogwood is very hard and heavy, making it a common choice for piano keys, cabinets, and mallet handles. Mammals and birds alike feast on the fruit throughout the summer and autumn. This particular species is restricted to the west of the Cascades. It is also the provincial flower of British Columbia.