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Benthamia Wikimedia Commons
Cornaceae

Benthamia

Cornus capitata

Durability and strength.

Family
Cornaceae
Genus
Cornus
Native to
Himalayas, China, Japan
Bloom season
Summer
Type
evergreen tree
Height
20-40 ft
Sunlight
full sun to part shade
Soil
Moist, well-drained, acidic soil
Water
moderate
Hardiness
8-10
Lifespan
perennial

Did you know

  • The showy cream-colored 'petals' are actually bracts surrounding a tight cluster of tiny true flowers.
  • The fruit resembles a large red strawberry and is edible, though mealy in texture.
  • Benthamia was named after George Bentham, one of the most prolific botanists of the 19th century.
  • In its native Himalayan habitat, it can grow at elevations up to 8,000 feet.
  • The hard, dense wood was traditionally used to make tool handles and walking sticks.

Color meanings

0

resilience

1

endurance

Uses

  • ornamental tree
  • edible fruit
  • specimen planting