Building Blocks of a Dogwood

Since 1956, the dogwood has been British Columbia’s floral emblem. This abstract, microscopic view of the cellular structure of the trees shows the pathways the nutrients travel to provide life-giving sustenance. The trees produce a cluster of inconspicuous green flowers that are surrounded by 4-6 white leaf brackets that themselves look like the flowers. The tree flowers in April and May. Dogwood is a heavy, fine-grained wood that has been used by our indigenous peoples to make various tools, dye, and medicines for stomach ailments, purifying the blood, and strengthening the lungs.