Discover the enchanting Cornus sessilis, commonly known as Blackfruit Cornel or Miner's Dogwood, a remarkable addition to any garden with its unique blend of beauty and resilience. Endemic to northern California's lush streambanks, this deciduous shrub or small tree achieves heights of up to 15 feet, thriving in the shaded undercanopy of Redwood and Yellow Pine Forests. Its broad, deeply-veined jade-green leaves turn to a striking red in the fall, while clusters of small, yellowish-green flowers emerge in early spring, adding subtle elegance to its surroundings. As the season progresses, the shrub's intriguing round drupes transition from green to white, then from yellow and red to a glossy black, providing a feast for the eye and for a myriad of fruit-loving birds. Ideal for woodland gardens or as a vibrant backdrop alongside redwoods and ferns, Cornus sessilis thrives in well-drained, moisture-rich soils with a pH between 4.0 to 7.0. Hardy to USDA zones 7-10, it offers a graceful presence with minimal maintenance, withstanding cold spells as low as 5°F. Perfect for a north side deck or a shaded retreat, it brings a touch of the wild to cultivated landscapes, embodying the serene beauty of California's native flora.