The Cornus genus is large, and comprises trees, shrubs and ground-covering sub-shrubs. There are generally two distinct Cornus groups for use in gardens: the flowering dogwoods, and those grown for their attractive coloured stems. Of the former, the first to flower in the year is the Cornelian cherry (Cornus mas) and its many forms. In late winter, it produces umbels of small yellow flowers in profusion. These are followed, in late summer, by fleshy, bright red fruits. However, the main flowering dogwood is Cornus florida – a deciduous shrub or small tree, and which has a number of excellent varieties.

Cultivars of Cornus alba and Cornus stolonifera are grown for their invaluable winter stems, in colours ranging from golden yellow and burnt orange, to purple, bright red and pink. Most cornels are tolerant of a wide range of soil types, but note that Cornus florida and Cornus canadensis dislike alkaline (chalky) soil. Ideally, choose a sunny spot to grow any form of Cornus, however most will be highly successful in part shade.