Bunchberry
Cornus canadensis
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
4"–8" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul
Native to
CO, CT, IA, ID and 23 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Bunchberry is a low-growing woodland groundcover with distinctive four-petaled white flowers in summer followed by bright red berries. This native plant forms neat carpets under trees and shrubs, offering year-round interest with its whorled leaves that turn red in fall.
In an HOA neighborhood
Bunchberry takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Dies back completely in winter leaving bare ground
- Very woodland appearance may seem too wild for formal landscapes
- Slow establishment can look sparse initially
Wildlife value
The flowers attract native bees and beetles for pollination. The bright red berries provide food for birds and small mammals in late summer and fall.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Bunchberry fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.