Cornus mas
Cornus mas, commonly known as Cornelian-cherry, is a deciduous shrub that prefers full sun and medium water conditions. It typically grows to a height of 2–5 meters and blooms with yellow flowers in early spring, before its leaves emerge. This plant thrives in loamy, clay, or sandy soils and is suitable for USDA zones 4–8. It produces edible red fruit in late summer.
Light
Full sun
Watering
Medium water
Soil
Loamy, Clay, Sandy
Height
2–5 m
Spread
2–4 m
Zones
4–8
Flower colors
Plant in well-drained soil in a location that receives full sun to partial shade. Cornus mas is relatively low-maintenance once established. Prune in late winter or early spring to shape the shrub or remove deadwood. The early spring flowers provide nectar for early pollinators.
The bright red fruit, known as Cornelian cherries, are edible and can be used in jams, jellies, or juices.