Woodland edges and openings; hardwood and mixed coniferous forests, mountain slopes, and coves
Its fruits are eaten by songbirds, ruffed grouse, quail, wild turkey, chipmunks, black bear, foxes, white-tailed deer, skunks, and squirrels. Host plant for the spring Azure (Celastrina ladon) butterfly/larvae. Plant NOVA Natives lists this species as particularly popular with the non-native honeybees
Note:
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
Virginia's state tree. More resistant to dogwood anthracnose fungus if planted in open areas, but if planted in full sun, it will need to be watered in extended dry spells
My Native Garden
Put together a printable/downloadable list of plants that you have in your garden.