Cornus florida - Flowering Dogwood

Cornus florida: Cornus is the Latin name for the Cornelian Cherry (Cornus mas); florida, producing abundant flowers.

Also known as Eastern Dogwood

Showy flower display before leaf out.
Buds open like a little balloon.
Showy 'petals' on flowers are actually bracts, or modified leaves.
True flowers.
Simple green leaves with arcuate veination, simple to undulate margins.
Showy yellow to red fall color, depending on climate.
Fruits are bright red bitter-tasting drupes, sometimes remaining after fall leaf drop.
Reddish-grey bark becomes darker and fissured or checkered with age.