Bunchberry
cornus canadensis
Also known as: ["Canadian dogwood","bunchberry dogwood","craneberry"]
Overview
A low-growing, creeping perennial shrub native to North America, known for its showy white flower clusters and bright red berries.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Cornales |
| Family: | Cornaceae |
| Genus: | Cornus |
| Botanical Name: | Cornus canadensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: shady woodland garden, understory planting, or container in cool climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–35–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"2–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining to well-draining.
- Soil Type: Moist, well-draining, acidic soil with high organic matter content.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, removing no more than 20% of the plant at one time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; 3–4 hours of morning sunlight or dappled light is ideal. Adjust for intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light if moving from shade; protect from harsh afternoon sun; place in filtered light indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct afternoon sun; use sheer curtains for indoor protection; rotate plants for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in dormancy
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; prioritize morning watering to reduce fungal risk.
Soil
moist, well-drained, acidic, organic-rich soil
pH: Acidic, pH 4.5–6.0.
Maintain consistent moisture; avoid compacted soil; enrich with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures, 50–70°F (10–21°C). Prefers cooler summers and tolerates cold winters.
Protect from extreme heat; ensure good air circulation; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer with balanced, slow-release fertilizer
Fertilize only in spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; reduce feeding in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Division or stem cuttings. Division is preferred for mature plants.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide clumps carefully.
- Cut stems just below a node.
- Plant in prepared medium.
- Maintain moisture and humidity.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is not in full bloom.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and consistent temperatures around 60–65°F (15–18°C).
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Timeline
4–8 weeks for roots to develop; additional months for establishment.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, pruning shears, rooting hormone, pots, propagation tray.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of older stems; cutting back to just above a healthy bud or lateral branch.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed. Focus on removing dead or damaged stems to maintain vigor.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged stems; make clean cuts; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any circling roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with added organic matter.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or outgrows its container, typically every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil mix; water thoroughly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early morning; avoid overhead watering; ensure drainage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the root zone, ensuring even saturation to a depth of 6–8 inches. Allow excess water to drain freely, avoiding waterlogged conditions. Water early in the morning.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth, reducing frequency in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add peat moss, compost, or leaf mold to enhance moisture retention and acidity. Incorporate perlite for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; stunted growth or browning in cold stress; bud drop in temperature fluctuations.
Cold Stress
Slows metabolic processes, causing leaf discoloration and reduced vigor. Can lead to winter dieback in severe cases.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect from harsh winds; avoid overwatering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Causes leaf wilting, scorch, and reduced flowering. May lead to premature dormancy.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water deeply but infrequently to avoid stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid over-fertilization; water before feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if needed. Avoid fertilizing in late autumn.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest the berries of Cornus canadensis. The toxicity is generally low, but ingestion in large quantities could lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of the berries of Cornus canadensis may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The compounds present are not highly toxic but can cause discomfort if consumed in large amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Cornus canadensis contain compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to the digestive system, with no severe systemic effects reported.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is bunchberry edible?
A: The berries are edible for humans when fully ripe, but should be consumed in moderation due to mild toxicity.
Q: Does bunchberry require full sun?
A: No, it prefers partial shade and thrives in woodland-like conditions.
Q: How does bunchberry reproduce?
A: It spreads via rhizomes and also reproduces from seeds dispersed by birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cornaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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