The white leaves that look like petals on this flowering dogwood are actually bracts that protect the small green buds
of the true dogwood flower. Most species of dogwood are trees or shrubs with simple leaves, but a few species, such
as the flowering dogwood, are popular for their ornamental value. Many songbirds and small mammals eat the fruit of
the dogwood, and the wood of several species of dogwood is used in making furniture.
Michael P. Gadomski/Earth Scenes
Flowering Dogwood," Microsoft® Encarta® 96 Encyclopedia. © 1993-1995 Microsoft
Corporation. All rights reserved.
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