The official flower symbol for our province of British Columbia is the Pacific Dogwood.  It is our floral emblem.  The Dogwood tree flowers in April and May.  In the autumn, it is known for its cluster of bright red berries and colourful leaves.

Students in Division 10 have been observing Pacific Dogwood trees in the Clinton School neighbourhood.  We have learned that the wood was used for making knitting needles by the Cowichan people and the deep brown bark was used for dye by the Salish.  The wood has also been used for piano keys.  

The branches provide shelter for land and water animals.  The flowers provide nectar to pollinating insects.  The fruit becomes food for birds and mammals.  The buds, twigs and leaves are munched on by local wildlife.  Bears and beavers enjoy the leaves and the twigs are food for deers.

We have been observing the white flowered Pacific Dogwood.  We have also seen the Pink Dogwood tree which is used as an ornamental tree in gardens.