It is one of the most underrated shrubs, whether native or non-native. The bright green bark is streaked with white, except on newer wood, where it is dark purple. Clusters of creamy white flowers turn into dark purple berries. Its branches tend to be long and horizontal.
Leaves are typical of dogwoods, with distinct veins running towards the tip.
Buds are small and alternate. Often found at the edges of woodlands and as an understory plant in a variety of forest types. It tolerates both sun and shade and will grow on almost any fertile, moist, well-drained site. This is one species we grow exclusively from seed. Collection is easiest along the edges of woods where the fruit crops are usually heaviest, from late July through September.