Plants

Cornelian Cherry Dogwood

Scientific Name
Cornus mas

Origin
Native of central and southern Europe and western Asia.

Habitat
Typically found in dry deciduous forests and brush lands. Can be found growing on many soil types in areas from full sun to partial shade.

Growth Nature
The Cornelian Cherry Dogwood is a relatively slow growing, small tree or multi-stemmed shrub. It will top out at about 15 to 25 ft. in height, with a spread of 12 to 18 ft. Tend to take on an oval to round shape as they mature.

Points of Interest

  • Blooms very early in spring, resembling forsythia.
  • The genus Cornus means “horn”, a reference to its hard wood.
  • The fruit that develops after blooming is bright cherry-red and is a favorite to birds.
  • Other wildlife is attracted to this plant. Butterflies and their caterpillars utilize the plant as a larval host and for its nectar.
  • The bark is rather showy and provides some winter interest in the landscape.
  • Uncontrolled plants will develop into large drooping clumps, which many gardeners use as a screen.