About

Cornus mas, the cornelian cherry, is a vigorous, multi-stemmed, deciduous shrub or small tree with oval leaves turning attractive purple shades in autumn and, in late winter before the leaves emerge, a beautiful display of clusters of tiny, bright-yellow flowers covering the bare branches. These are followed by glossy, cherry-like, bright-red fruits in late summer � edible and used in preserves. A rewarding and multi-season ornamental for any garden.

About the genus

Cornus, the dogwoods, are deciduous shrubs, trees and creeping woody-based perennials valued for their multi-season ornamental features, including brightly coloured young stems in winter, clusters of small flowers often backed by showy bracts in spring, colourful fruits in summer and fine autumn foliage tints. Among the most versatile and rewarding of all ornamental garden plants.

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6

Plant details

Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toEurope, W Asia

Care notes

CultivationGrow in well-drained soil in sun or partial shade. For more advice, see flowering dogwood cultivation
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by semi-hardwood or hardwood cuttings or grafting
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free but may be susceptible to horse chestnut scale
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to cornus anthracnose and honey fungus