Plant species

Cornelian cherry Cornus mas

Cornaceae

Species information

Description

A woody plant with opposite leaves and small flowers in dense clusters, followed by drupes. Small yellow flowers open before leaf-out. It grows in habitats such as forest edges and shrublands.

Plant traits

Growth form

shrub / small tree

Life cycle

perennial

Height

200–700 cm

Typical season

123456789101112

Active growth

Flowering

Fruiting

Timing varies with site and year.

Habitat conditions

Habitat

forest edge · shrubland · open woodland

Light

full sun · partial shade

Moisture

dry · mesic

Soil

base-rich

Substrate

calcareous

Pollination

insect pollination

Status

native

Interesting facts

The edible red fruits, called Cornelian cherries, ripen in late summer and have a pleasantly tart taste when fully ripe.

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