At the time of the crucifixion, the dogwood had
reached the size of the mighty oak tree. So strong and firm was
the wood that it was chosen as the timber for Jesus' cross.
To be used for such a cruel purpose
greatly distressed the dogwood. While nailed upon it, Jesus
sensed this, and in his compassion said. "Because of your pity
for my suffering, never again shall the dogwood tree grow large
enough to be used for a cross. Henceforth, it shall be slender,
bent, and twisted, and its blossoms shall be in the form of a
cross–two long and two short petals.
"In the center of the outer edge of
each petal will be the print of nails. In the center of the
flower, stained with blood, will be a crown of thorns so that
all who see it will remember."
The pink dogwood is said to be blushing for shame because of the
cruel purpose which it served in the Crucifixion. The weeping
dogwood further symbolized the sorrow. The red dogwood, called
the Cherokee, bears the color to remind us of the blood shed by
our Savior.