Cornelian Cherry Dogwood

The Cornelian Cherry Dogwood (Cornus mas) is a small-sized ornamental flowering tree. In early spring before its foliage comes on, rounded clusters of very small yellow flowers light up the bare branches to welcome spring. Rounded, dark green leaves follow the bloom at the end of spring which then become a backdrop in mid summer for the ripening dark red fruits. Its canopy is ovate and rounded. In the winter, its bark can provide the landscape with an elegant display of rough, exfoliating, rich brown bark.

The Cornelian Cherry Dogwood is native to central and southern Europe along with western Asia. Its red fruits are edible and can be used in syrups and preserves. This tree is also quite adaptable to many conditions. It would be a great fit for a yard as a specimen planted on its own or can be used in a hedge screen when planted in groups. It does best in full to partial sun and can tolerate most soil types but should not be left to dry out.