Green Osier, Alternateleaf dogwood, Alternate Leaf Dogwood, Golden Shadows Pagoda Dogwood, Green Osi

Cornus alternifolia

Physical Characteristics

Cornus alternifolia is a deciduous Shrub growing to 6 m (19ft) by 6 m (19ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in flower in June, and the seeds ripen in October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in heavy clay soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - Newfoundland to Florida, west to Manitoba and Arkansas.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Anthelmintic Antiaphonic Astringent Diaphoretic Febrifuge Ophthalmic Poultice Stimulant VD Green osier was employed medicinally by a number of native North American Indian tribes who valued it particularly for its astringent bark which was used both internally and externally to treat diarrhoea, skin problems etc[257]. It is little used in modern herbalism. The dried bark is used as an astringent, diaphoretic and stimulant[213, 257]. The inner bark was boiled and the solution used as an enema[213] and this solution was also used as a tea to reduce fevers, treat influenza, diarrhoea, headaches, voice loss etc[213, 257]. It was used as a wash for the eyes[257]. A compound infusion of the bark and roots has been used to treat childhood diseases such as measles and worms[257]. It has also been used as a wash on areas of the body affected by venereal disease[257]. A poultice of the powdered bark has been used to treat swellings, blisters etc[257].

Known Hazards

None known