Genus Cornus refers to a group of deciduous trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants commonly referred to as Dogwoods. While often used to describe this particular group of plants, there are synonyms for the term Genus Cornus. These synonyms include the term Cornus, which is used interchangeably with Genus Cornus to describe the same group of plants. Another synonym commonly used for species in the Genus Cornus is the name Benthamidia. Other synonyms that may be used to describe this genus include Chamaepericlymenum and Swida, although these names are less commonly used. When considering different species within the Genus Cornus, it is important to pay attention to not only the formal scientific name but also any commonly used synonyms.