Swedish Cornel

cornus suecica

Also known as: ["Bog Dogwood","Swedish Dogwood"]

Family: Cornaceae Genus: Cornus Category: Shrubs

Overview

A small, deciduous shrub native to northern Europe and North America, known for its bright red winter stems and small, white flowers.

Benefits & Perks

["cold hardy","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","seasonal color change"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Cornales
Family: Cornaceae
Genus: Cornus
Botanical Name: Cornus suecica

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Shrubs
  • Suitable Location: moist woodland gardens or shaded rockeries
  • Suitable For:
    Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
  • Drainage: Well-draining but moisture-retentive.
  • Soil Type: Moist, acidic, well-drained soil with plenty of 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: Light to moderate; remove no more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct or dappled sunlight per day.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun to avoid scorching. Protect from intense midday sun in hot climates. Outdoor placement is ideal, but ensure partial shade during peak summer.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves (chlorosis) may indicate poor drainage or incorrect pH; wilting despite moist soil suggests root issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

partial shade to full sun

Morning sun is best; provide shade in afternoon heat; rotate plants for even light exposure.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water deeply but infrequently; ensure good drainage; adjust frequency based on season and weather.

Soil

moist, acidic, well-drained soil

pH: Acidic to slightly acidic (pH 4.5–6.0).

Ensure good drainage; maintain acidity; enrich with organic matter annually.

Temperature

Hardy in USDA zones 2–7; tolerates cold temperatures down to -40°F (-40°C). Prefers cool summers and avoids extreme heat.

Protect from late spring frosts; avoid hot, dry winds; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Fertilize sparingly; apply before new growth emerges; water well after fertilizing.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and humid.

Best Time: Late spring or early summer when new growth is vigorous.

Environment

High humidity, indirect light, and consistent warmth (60–70°F or 15–21°C).

Medium

Peat-based potting mix with added perlite for drainage.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is optional but can improve success rates.

Timeline

Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new location within a growing season.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, peat-based mix, plastic wrap or propagator, misting bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity; avoid direct sunlight.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective thinning of old or weak stems; heading back to encourage bushier growth.

Pruning Plan

Minimal pruning required; focus on removing dead or damaged stems to maintain shape and encourage flowering.

Tools

Pruning shears, bypass secateurs, sterilizing solution.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape lightly; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth starts.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter if repotting.

Method

Gently remove plant; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with added organic matter.

Suggestions

Not typically required unless grown in containers; repot every 2–3 years to refresh soil.

Checklist

Prepare new pot; trim roots; add fresh soil; water thoroughly; place in appropriate light.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal diseases. Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.

Pro Tip: Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation to deliver water directly to the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water moderately during spring and summer, allowing the top inch of soil to dry between waterings. Reduce watering in fall and winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add peat moss, compost, or well-rotted manure to enhance moisture retention and acidity.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Leaf scorch in excessive heat; dieback in prolonged cold without protection.

Cold Stress

Leaves may turn brown or black; stems can become brittle and die back if not protected in harsh winters.

Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect with burlap screens in exposed locations; avoid planting in frost pockets.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf drop, or scorched foliage due to excessive heat and sun exposure.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity with misting; water deeply and mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid late-season feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Avoid over-fertilizing, as Cornus suecica is not heavy feeder.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Cornus suecica may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Cornus suecica can be caused by water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to reduced turgor pressure and potential plant death.

Leaf spots on Cornus suecica may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Cornus suecica due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Cornus suecica is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion by felines.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are necessary for cats, though it is always advisable to monitor pets when they consume unfamiliar plants.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Cornus suecica is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion by canines.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are necessary for dogs, though it is always advisable to monitor pets when they consume unfamiliar plants.
Humans
Non-toxic

Cornus suecica, commonly known as Swedish Cornel, is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known toxic effects or physiological impacts when ingested in typical amounts.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are necessary for human consumption, though it is always advisable to consume plants in moderation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does Cornus suecica have any medicinal uses?

A: There is limited documented evidence of medicinal uses for Cornus suecica, though related species have been used traditionally.

Q: How does Cornus suecica differ from other dogwoods?

A: Cornus suecica is distinguished by its small size, bright red winter stems, and preference for boggy or moist habitats.

Q: Is Cornus suecica suitable for container gardening?

A: While possible, Cornus suecica is best suited for garden beds due to its spreading habit and need for moist soil.

Quick Reference
Family: Cornaceae
Care: moderate
Light: partial shade to full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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