Cornelian Cherry
cornus mas
Also known as: ["Cornelian Cherry Dogwood","European Cornel"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub or small tree known for its early spring yellow flowers and edible red fruits.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Cornales |
| Family: | Cornaceae |
| Genus: | Cornus |
| Botanical Name: | Cornus mas |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden, adaptable to various soil types
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–25–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old wood to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates light shade but produces more flowers and fruit in full sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun if moved from shade. Protect from intense midday sun in hot climates. Outdoor placement is ideal for optimal growth.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid direct sun on leaves during peak hours.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate fertility
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; avoid waterlogged conditions; amend with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 5–8. Prefers temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates winter lows to -20°F (-29°C) and summer highs to 90°F (32°C).
Protect from late frosts; water deeply before cold snaps; avoid placing near heat sources in winter.
Fertilizing
annually in early spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer
Fertilize sparingly; avoid fertilizing in late summer to prevent new growth vulnerable to frost; water well after fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings in summer or layering in spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer for cuttings; early spring for layering.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Peat and perlite mix or cactus mix with added sand for drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, plastic wrap or dome, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the canopy; heading cuts to shape branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage fruit production.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/diseased wood first; 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
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh soil mix with good drainage; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Young plants may need repotting annually.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during spring and summer, reducing frequency in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; delayed bud break in cold springs; leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold stress.
Cold Stress
Leaves may curl or turn brown; buds may not open; growth may slow or stop in extreme cold.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in winter; protect from harsh winds; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or premature fruit drop; reduced flowering and fruit set.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid over-fertilization; water after application.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring before new growth. Apply again after flowering. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCornus mas berries can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in cats if consumed in large quantities. The tannins present in the berries may lead to digestive disturbances, though severe toxicity is rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Dogs
Slightly ToxicWhile Cornus mas berries are not highly toxic to dogs, ingestion in large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to their tannin content. The physiological impact is generally limited to digestive disturbances.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Humans
Non-toxicCornus mas berries are generally considered non-toxic to humans when consumed in moderation. However, excessive consumption may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to their high tannin content. The physiological impact is minimal and typically resolves without medical intervention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are Cornus mas fruits edible?
A: Yes, the red fruits are edible and can be used in jams, syrups, and other culinary applications.
Q: Does Cornus mas attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its flowers and fruits.
Q: Is Cornus mas suitable for beginners?
A: Yes, it is relatively easy to grow and maintain, making it suitable for beginners.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cornaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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