Did you know? Dogwood petals are actually bracts, which are “modified leaves or scales, come in many forms, colors, and textures; and terminology may vary by type and species. Their main function is to protect young flower buds from the elements by enclosing the floral organs.”
Some bracts look like leaves, green, like the bract under this rose. Dogwoods, like poinsettias have showy bracts in different colors. They support the rather unremarkable flower in the middle. They also start out rather green.
Aren’t plants the coolest things ever?