Common dogwood grows 2–6 meters tall. The leaves are opposite, 4–8 centimeters long and 2–4 centimeter broad. The timber is very hard and was used for crucifixes and toothpicks.
The hermaphrodite flowers of common dogwood [the male and female reproductive parts are contained within the same flower.] are produced in cluster with a diameter of 3–5 centimeters. The flowers are small, with four creamy white petals and an unpleasant fragrance They are pollinated by insects.
The fruit is a globose black berry 5–8 millimeters in diameter, containing a single seed.