Cornus racemosa, commonly known as the gray dogwood, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the dogwood family, Cornaceae. It is native to North America and can be found growing in various habitats, including woodlands, thickets, and stream banks. The gray dogwood is a hardy and low-maintenance shrub that typically grows up to 8 feet in height and width. It has multiple stems with brownish-gray bark and dense, twiggy branches that provide cover for wildlife. The leaves of the gray dogwood are oval-shaped, pointed at the tip, and have a slightly wavy edge. They are dark green in color during the summer, turning reddish-purple in the fall. In the spring, the shrub produces clusters of small, white flowers that give way to blue-black berries in the fall. These berries are an important food source for birds and other wildlife during the winter months. The gray dogwood is a great choice for landscaping, as it is low-maintenance and provides year-round interest. It can be propagated through cuttings or seed, and benefits from regular pruning to promote healthy growth.

Gray dogwood is found in the Midwest and Eastern United States. It's range is from North Dakota and Minnesota south to Arkansas, and East to Main and the Carolinas. 

Plant Height: 3-8'

Bloom time: June - July

Preferred Habitat: Does well in part shade to full sun with average moisture soil. Often found in open woods, woodland edges, savannas, fields, thickets, and roadsides.