Roughleaf Dogwood in bloom with insect eggs on a leaf, Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge, OklahomaRoughleaf Dogwood in bloom with insect eggs on a leaf – Canon R7, beanbag, f13, 1/160, ISO 2000, -0.3 EV, Canon RF 100-500mm at 428mm, natural light

On my last two trips to Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge, I have taken photos of blooming Roughleaf Dogwood that is currently covered in creamy white flowers.

I selected this photo to share, taken at the end of April, because of the insect eggs on the leaf below the cluster of flowers. It looked like some of the eggs had already hatched.

Blooming Roughleaf Dogwood at Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge, OklahomaBlooming Roughleaf Dogwood at Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge – Canon R7, beanbag, f13, 1/160, ISO 2000, Canon RF 100-500mm at 428mm, natural light

Roughleaf Dogwood appears to grow in many locations on the refuge. These photos were taken where the dogwoods are tucked into dense rows of trees right next to the road. These dogwoods grow in full sun to partial shade and handle anything from wet to dry soils well.

I didn’t notice a scent from the flowers, probably because on both days that I photographed them there was a slight to strong breeze or wind. I’ve read that their scent is not all that appealing; in fact, some people compare it to the smell of a dirty gym bag or sour milk.

Flowering Roughleaf Dogwood at the edge of a forest, Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge, OklahomaFlowering Roughleaf Dogwood at the edge of a forest – Canon R7, handheld, f7.1, 1/1600, ISO 1250, -0.7 EV, Canon RF 100-500mm at 500mm, natural light

The flowers of native Roughleaf Dogwood tend to attract a steady stream of pollinators including native bees, small beetles, and butterflies.

Roughleaf Dogwoods grow fast, form thickets, provide cover and nesting areas for birds, and offer four-season interest through blooms, berries, and fall color. They can also be used for screening unsightly fences, sheds, and can add privacy to gardens.

Blooming Roughleaf Dogwood kissed by morning light, Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge, OklahomaBlooming Roughleaf Dogwood kissed by morning light – Canon R7, handheld, f7.1, 1/1600, ISO 1250, -0.7 EV, Canon RF 100-500mm at 500mm, natural light

Later in the year, white berries (aka drupes) form, and over 40 species of birds feed on the Roughleaf Dogwood berries.

So not only are these dogwoods beautiful when they bloom, they provide food and cover for birds, which I really appreciate. I’m sure the birds appreciate them too!

Life is good.

Mia

Click here to see more of my wildflower, shrub and tree photos.