Cornel

/ˈkɔrnəl/ noun

Definition

A small tree or shrub bearing small white or yellow flowers and colorful berries, commonly used in ornamental landscaping.

Etymology

From Latin 'cornus' meaning a horn-bearing tree, likely named for its hard, horn-like wood. The word entered Middle English through Old French and has been used for this plant since medieval times.

Kelly Says

Cornel trees were so valued in ancient Rome that soldiers planted them as trail markers—they're still one of the first signs of spring in European forests!

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