Floodplain forests, alluvial and tidal swamps, rocky and sandy river shores, stream banks, wet meadows, and old fields. Frequent throughout.
It is the host plant for the spring/summer Azure butterflies. Butterflies nectar at its blooms. Its fruits are eaten by songbirds, ruffed grouse, quail, turkey, chipmunks, black bear, foxes, white-tailed deer, skunks, and squirrels. The foliage is browsed by white-tailed deer. Members of the genus Cornus support specialized bees.
High Value Generalist
Earth Sangha lists this plant as a "High Value Generalist" because it is easy to grow, occurs across a wide range of habitats and is known to be of high value to wildlife
Plant NOVA Natives lists this species as particularly popular with the non-native honeybees
My Native Garden
Put together a printable/downloadable list of plants that you have in your garden.