Overview
Cornus mas is a bushy shrubs in the genus Cornus, part of the Cornaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 2.5-4 metres tall and 2.5-4 metres wide, reaching full size in around 10-20 years. Cornus mas grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. It is attractive to pollinators. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden and wildlife gardens. It is native to Europe and W Asia.
About
Cornus mas is a deciduous shrub characterized by its oval leaves, which transition to a purple hue in the autumn months. In late winter, it produces small clusters of vibrant yellow flowers. These blooms are succeeded by glossy red fruits resembling cherries.
About the genus
Cornus includes a variety of deciduous shrubs and trees, as well as prostrate, woody perennials, some featuring vibrant young stems. The small flowers appear in compact clusters, occasionally accompanied by prominent bracts. Several species display attractive foliage in the fall.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Cornus
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Cornus mas size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Shrubs
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 2.5-4 metres
- Spread
- 2.5-4 metres
- Time to full height
- 10-20 years
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
- Native to
- Europe, W Asia
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Cornus mas
- Cultivation
- Grow in well-drained soil in sun or partial shade. For more advice, see flowering dogwood cultivation
- Pruning
- Pruning group 1
- Propagation
- Propagate by semi-hardwood or hardwood cuttings or grafting
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free but may be susceptible to horse chestnut scale
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to cornus anthracnose and honey fungus
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Cornus mas?
Grow in well-drained soil in sun or partial shade. For more advice, see flowering dogwood cultivation.
Where is the best place to plant Cornus mas?
Cornus mas prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Cornus mas need?
Cornus mas is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to well-drained.
How do I prune Cornus mas?
Pruning group 1.
How big does Cornus mas grow?
Cornus mas reaches a height of 2.5-4 metres and a spread of 2.5-4 metres. It takes around 10-20 years to reach full size.
Is Cornus mas hardy in the UK?
Cornus mas has a UK hardiness rating of H6.
How do I propagate Cornus mas?
Propagate by semi-hardwood or hardwood cuttings or grafting.
Is Cornus mas good for pollinators?
Yes — Cornus mas attracts and supports pollinators such as bees and other beneficial insects.