Did Dogwood Trees Grow in Jerusalem?

The information center at the Ministry of Tourism in Israel was contacted to find out whether dogwoods actually grow in Jerusalem, Israel, or the surrounding areas. Their reply? "No, the dogwood doesn't grow naturally in or near Israel. It is native to Europe, eastern Asia, and North America only."

Where did the dogwood tree originate?

Cornus florida, the flowering dogwood, is a species of flowering tree in the family Cornaceae native to eastern North America and northern Mexico. An endemic population once spanned from southernmost coastal Maine south to northern Florida and west to the Mississippi River.

Is the legend of the dogwood tree in the Bible?

The legend goes like this: In Jesus' time, dogwood trees grew in Jerusalem. Then, dogwoods were tall, large, and similar to oak trees in strength. Because of its mightiness, the tree was chopped down and made into the cross Jesus was crucified upon. This role gave the tree both a curse and a blessing.