Cornelian Cherry Dogwood | Plant Profile

Cornelian Cherry Dogwood (Cornus mas) is an ornamental deciduous small tree or shrub. With age, the bark exfoliates and falls to the ground. Before the leaves sprout, small yellow flowers cover the tree. The dark green leaves of summer are not particularly showy in fall. The small red fruits that are produced after blooms die are edible, though sour. They can be turned into jams or spreads.

Cornelian Cherry Dogwood prefers fertile, medium moisture, well drained soils in full sun to part shade. These shrubs or trees propagate via basal shoots that should be removed in landscaped areas as spreading can result in a messy look.

These shrubs are best for spring interest when flowers are in full bloom. They are often grouped as hedges or borders. They are also popular in naturalized areas where they are permitted to spread.