Chamaepericlymenum canadense (formerly Cornus canadensis)
Bunchberry
This fantastic shady ground cover has a lot going for it from the unique leaves to the bright white flowers to the unique pollen dispersal.
The berries are edible but bitter, best left to be enjoyed by wildlife from Vireos, White throated sparrows, Veeries, Grouse, and more.
Now about those exploding flowers..."...the bunchberry dogwood produces a tiny explosion (and holds a special place in my heart) as the fastest-opening flower in the world. Cornus canadensis opens in less than 0.4 milliseconds. Its initial acceleration is more than 2400 times the acceleration of gravity. This flower’s energetic explosion propels pollen ten times the height of the flower–that is, an impressive 2.5 centimeters into the air." (source)
Second photo courtesy of Linda Relson
Plants can be purchased in-person or online (with in-person pick-up).
All online orders will be ready for pick-up 24-72 hours after purchase. You will receive an email to let you know when your order is ready. We kindly ask that you pick-up any orders within one week of purchase.
Cornus canadensis (bunchberry)
type: herbaceous "subshrub" sun needs: part shade to shade water needs: wet to average soil height: 5" plant spacing: 1/sq ft bloom time: June, July bloom color: white