Cornus mas
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Cornus mas

زغال اخته · Dogwood · Cornelian cherry · Sorbet · European Cornel

Tier 1 Difficulty: easy Water: low Light: full_sun Toxicity: low
Water every
7 days
0
Soil pH
6–7
Hardiness
Zone 3–8
Click count
1,168
Observations
10,239

Description

Source: leafsnap

Cornus mas, commonly known as the Cornelian cherry, is a deciduous shrub or small tree that belongs to the dogwood family. Native to Europe and western Asia, it has been cultivated for its edible fruit for centuries. This plant generally reaches a height of 5-7 meters and features a spreading habit with multiple stems. The leaves of Cornus mas are oval-shaped with a dark green hue and prominent veins. In early spring, before the leaves emerge, the plant produces small yellow flowers. These flowers give way to bright red, oblong-shaped fruits that ripen in late summer or early fall. The fruit of Cornus mas is edible and has a tart flavor, similar to that of sour cherries or cranberries. It can be enjoyed fresh or used to make jams, jellies, syrups, or even fermented into wine. Cornus mas thrives in well-drained soil and full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. It is relatively easy to grow and requires minimal maintenance once established. Beyond its culinary uses, Cornus mas also offers medicinal benefits, boasting high levels of antioxidants such as vitamin C, which help boost immunity against illnesses like colds and flu. Overall, Cornus mas is an attractive ornamental plant that provides aesthetic value with its beautiful springtime flowers and practical benefits through its delicious, year-round fruit.

💡 The Cornelian cherry is an exceptional plant with a rich history of use in traditional medicine. In recent years, scientific studies have confirmed its numerous medicinal properties. Beyond its health benefits, it offers ornamental charm with its yellow blooms in the spring, and it holds economic importance and diverse culinary applications.

🌳 Throughout history, cornelian cherry has shown notable and varied uses beyond its ornamental and fruit-bearing roles. In ancient times, the Greeks observed the wood's density and resilience and made it into spears and arrow shafts. This historical application highlights a lesser-known but important function of the plant, presenting it as a preferred material for weaponry and a clear sign of its robustness and durability. In addition, extracts from cornelian cherry fruit have long been used in natural dyeing, producing vivid yellow or olive-green hues on textiles and other materials, demonstrating its usefulness in both color production and traditional craft techniques.

Care Guide

💧 Water Every 7 days

The Cornelian cherry thrives in moderately moist soil and, once established, is drought-tolerant, needing watering every two weeks. It does well in temperate climates, benefiting from natural rainfall. However, during dry spells, especially in its active growth phase, it requires supplemental watering.

Suggested frequency: Every 7 days
FAQ
What is the most effective way to water my Cornelian cherry plant?

To ensure excellent root growth, place a garden hose at the base of the plant. Avoid spraying the leaves directly, as this can lead to increased watering needs if the plant is outdoors and in direct sunlight. Consider using bubblers or soaker hoses to keep the roots moist. When adding or removing plants, use soaker hoses that cover the entire garden or bed to encourage deep root growth. After watering, drain any excess water and allow the soil to dry before watering again. Watering at ground level helps prevent diseases. On sunny days, it's beneficial to spray the entire bush with water. Whether potted or in-ground, remember that Cornelian cherry plants prefer deep watering rather than light sprinkling.

If I give the Cornelian cherry too much or too little water, what should I do?

An overwatered Cornelian cherry shows signs of yellowing, dropping leaves, and wilting. The plant may also appear dull and unhealthy with mushy stems. When these signs appear, adjust your watering schedule if possible. Wilting can also indicate under watering, which causes crispy, dry leaves. If the soil is dry and water alone is not sufficient, give the plant a thorough watering. This will help the Cornelian cherry recover, although the plant may still exhibit dryness and yellow leaves due to root damage. Once the plant returns to normal, the yellowing of the leaves will cease. When keeping a Cornelian cherry indoors, always check the moisture levels in the pot, avoiding overwatering and looking out for black spots. If present, allow the soil to dry out by withholding water for a few days. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so consider transferring the plant to a different pot if discolored and slimy roots are observed. It is important to prevent root rot by avoiding overly soggy soil. When planting the Cornelian cherry outdoors, dig a little deeper and check the soil moisture with your fingers. If the soil is too dry, it may indicate underwatering. Adequate watering is necessary for the plant to recover.

How frequently should I give water to my Cornelian cherry plant?

To properly water Cornelian cherry plants, it is important to follow a few guidelines. If the plants are in pots, keep in mind that the water storage capacity is limited, so they will dry out more quickly. For potted plants, soak them with a gallon of water each time, especially when you first plant them. In colder regions, watering every 3 to 5 days is necessary. It's best to water in the morning when the soil is dry. To determine if watering is needed, check the top 2-3 inches of soil. If it is dry, give the plant a thorough watering. During hot days, monitor the soil moisture daily, as the heat can cause it to dry out quickly. For plants in a garden, irrigation is necessary, particularly in hot climates. Water once a week if the top 2-3 inches of soil are dry. Take into account rainfall, and avoid watering excessively to prevent root rot. During the growing seasons of spring and fall, add a layer of mulch about 3 to 4 inches deep around the plants to conserve water. The frequency of watering depends on the type of soil. Sandy soil drains faster, so more frequent watering is needed. Clay soil, on the other hand, requires less frequent watering to prevent root rot. If you mark the date on a calendar each time you water, you can observe any patterns or signs that the plants may need water sooner, such as drooping leaves.

How much water should I give my Cornelian cherry plant?

The Cornelian cherry typically requires about a gallon of water per schedule. For potted plants, water them deeply until the water begins to drip from the bottom of the pot. Wait for the soil to dry before watering again. To determine the amount of water given to your plant in a week, you can use a water calculator or moisture meter. During the flowering period, provide plenty of water but allow the moisture to evaporate to prevent root rot. If the Cornelian cherry is planted outdoors and receives adequate rainfall, it may not need additional watering. When the plant is young or newly planted, ensure it receives 1-2 inches of rain per week. As the plant grows, it can survive solely on rainfall. However, consider giving it a thorough watering during cooler moments of the day if the weather is too hot or if there has been no rainfall for 2-3 weeks to prevent heat damage. Additional watering may be necessary during prolonged dry spells.

Should I change how often I water my Cornelian cherry tree based on the time of year or the weather?

The Cornelian cherry is an outdoor plant that generally relies on rainfall for watering, but if the weather is persistently dry, you may need to water it. During the spring and fall, the soil should be kept moist but not soggy. Alternating between dry and moist soil conditions is ideal for its growth. In the summer, hot weather can cause water to evaporate quickly, so you may need to water more frequently if there is a lack of rainfall. However, during the winter, the Cornelian cherry needs less water because it goes dormant. You can use well-draining but moisture-retentive soil like terracotta for this period. Once it starts leafing out in the spring and going dormant again, you can rely on the fall and winter rains for its water needs. When cultivating the Cornelian cherry, make sure the drainage is good, especially in winter to avoid ponding. If planted in pots, they have limited root growth, so they should be kept well-watered, especially in the summer. It's best to water deeply at least once or twice a week, avoiding shallow sprinkles that reach only the leaves. You should also avoid letting the Cornelian cherry dry out completely, even in dormancy. Avoid overwatering, as the plant doesn't like sitting in water for too long. Applying mulch can help reduce stress, conserve water, and promote healthy blooms.

☀️ Light Full sun

Cornelian cherry grows best with abundant sunlight but can also tolerate reduced light levels. In its native habitat it receives a considerable amount of sun, which supports vigorous growth. An imbalance in light—either too little or too much—can harm the plant, stunting growth or causing leaf scorch.

Ideal: Full sun
FAQ
How many hours of sunlight per day does Cornelian cherry need for healthy growth?

To ensure healthy growth, Cornelian cherry needs a minimum of 3-6 hours of sunlight daily. While most plants that tolerate partial sunlight can also thrive in full sun, they are more adaptable than plants that require full sun or partial shade as they need less light for photosynthesis.

What kind of sunlight does Cornelian cherry require?

Cornelian cherry thrives in full or part sun, specifically benefiting from direct morning light. However, it requires protection from the intense afternoon sun during summer. Too much hot afternoon sun in temperate environments can result in leaf burn, leading to both compromised appearance and health of the plant.

Can the sun harm Cornelian cherry? How can I keep Cornelian cherry safe from the sun and heat?

When planting cornelian cherry indoors, it is important to protect it from direct sunlight when moving it outdoors. To prevent sunburn, gradually move the pots from a shaded area to a brighter spot. However, extreme heat can still damage acclimated plants. During a heatwave, it is crucial to keep the soil moist to help the plants cope with the heat. To protect cornelian cherry during extreme weather, consider moving container plants to shaded areas or using a shade cloth.

Does Cornelian cherry need to avoid sun exposure? / Should I protect Cornelian cherry from the sun? Should I keep Cornelian cherry away from the sun?

Cornelian cherry benefits from bright morning sun and some full sun exposure. However, it can struggle with the harsh, hot midday sun in summer. If planted in the ground, the Cornelian cherry can gradually adapt to the increasing intensity of the summer sun. On the other hand, potted plants that have been indoors or in a protected location may suffer damage if suddenly exposed to direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day. To protect the Cornelian cherry from the brutal afternoon summer sun, it is recommended to plant or place it in a shaded area during midday. This can be achieved by positioning it under taller trees or plants, or by using a building or landscape feature for shade.

What happens if Cornelian cherry doesn't get enough sunlight?

If a Cornelian cherry doesn't get enough sunlight, it can show weak signs like pale green color or drooping yellow leaves. While it's normal for some leaves to fall off, it's concerning if new ones aren't growing in their place. Inadequate light can also result in frail, pale, and susceptible-to-insects new growth. By being aware of these signs and adjusting the lighting, you can make a noticeable improvement for the plant.

🌡️ Temperature 0–32.2°C

The cornelian cherry is a plant native to cooler regions and does best in temperatures from 32 to 89.6 °F (0 to 32 ℃). To keep it in optimal health, it is advisable to modify its environment in line with seasonal temperature changes.

Ideal temperature: 0–32.2°C
FAQ
What is the native climate for Cornelian cherry, and how should its environment be adjusted seasonally?

The Cornelian cherry is native to colder climates and thrives in temperatures ranging from 32 to 89.6 °F (0 to 32 °C). To maintain the plant's optimum health, it is important to adjust its environment according to seasonal temperature fluctuations. The plant is highly cold-tolerant and doesn't require additional frost protection during winter. However, it is recommended to water the plant generously before the first freeze in the autumn, ensuring the soil stays moist and enters a frozen state. This preparation helps prevent drought and water scarcity for the Cornelian cherry during the winter and early spring.

How does Cornelian cherry respond to low temperatures, and what measures should be taken if temperatures drop below -35°C?

The Cornelian cherry is extremely cold-tolerant, with winter temperatures needing to stay above -35°C to avoid damage. Although the plant can survive temperatures below this threshold without noticeable changes during winter, its branches may become brittle and dry by spring, leading to a lack of new shoot emergence. To counteract this, it's recommended to prune away any dead branches that have failed to produce new leaves in the spring.

What effects do high temperatures have on Cornelian cherry, and how can these effects be mitigated?

Cornelian cherry is susceptible to high temperatures, and when the temperature exceeds 32°C, it may experience significant leaf drop. In severe cases, the plant can wither and die. To alleviate the effects of high temperatures, trim away any sunburned and dried-up parts of the plant. Additionally, moving the plant to a shaded location or using a shade cloth to protect it from intense midday and afternoon sun can help. It's also beneficial to water the plant in the morning and evening to maintain soil moisture.

💨 Humidity normal (40-60%)

This plant will thrive in moderate humidity, which is probably the level in your home. However, misting it a few times a week can be very beneficial. Make sure the room has good ventilation.

Humidity: normal (40-60%)
🪴 Soil 6-7
Soil pH: 6-7
🌱 Fertilizer Every 90 days

The Cornelian cherry plant needs adequate nutrients to achieve optimal fruit production. Fertilize in early spring to support new growth and bloom development. Regular feeding keeps the plant healthy, promotes more delicious fruit, and prevents nutrient-deficiency problems like yellow leaves and poor fruit production.

Suggested frequency: Every 90 days
FAQ
Why is it necessary to fertilize my Cornelian cherry tree?

Fertilizing your Cornelian cherry is essential for several reasons. First, it will promote the growth of beautiful blooms. The best time to fertilize is in early spring to ensure excellent flowers during that season. Additionally, fertilizer provides the cherry tree with an abundance of energy that can be stored in the ground during its dormant growth phases. By giving your Cornelian cherry some extra nutrients during fall planting or late spring, you are enabling it to store more energy for future use when it enters active growth again.

When should I fertilizer my Cornelian cherry tree?

To ensure effective use and prevent waste and pollution, timing is crucial when fertilizing Cornelian cherry. Apply the first application of fertilizer in early spring, when the Cornelian cherry is no longer dormant. Continuously fertilize once a month until early summer. Avoid fertilizing too early while the Cherry is still dormant, as this may result in ineffective use and the fertilizer being washed away by rainwater.

When should I not put fertilizer on my Cornelian cherry?

To ensure optimal blooming, it is important to use a fertilizer with a lower level of nitrogen for Cornelian cherry. Excessive nitrogen can result in an abundance of leaves but limited blooms. Avoid fertilizing the tree during late autumn, as it can encourage too much growth before winter. Additionally, refrain from fertilizing during hot and dry periods, as dry soil hinders the effectiveness of fertilizers and can lead to excessive growth that requires more water. It is best to fertilize Cornelian cherry earlier in the season when temperatures are cooler. Lastly, keep in mind that the tree can absorb fertilizer applied to nearby plants or lawns, so be cautious not to inadvertently provide it with a double-dose of fertilizer.

What kind of fertilizer does my Cornelian cherry tree require?

To help your Cornelian cherry thrive, it is best to use a fertilizer that has a balanced mix of nutrients, with slightly more phosphorus. Another option is to enhance the soil with organic materials like compost, worm castings, and manure. When the flower buds start to appear, some experienced gardeners supplement with water-soluble fertilizers containing phosphorus, which promotes better flower development, larger blossoms, and longer blooming periods. Fertilizers can come in various forms, but liquid or powdered ones are particularly effective for Cornelian cherry. Regardless of the form you choose, be sure to dilute the fertilizer and apply it while watering your Cornelian cherry.

How should I fertilize my Cornelian cherry tree?

To properly fertilize your Cornelian cherry, it is important to always follow the specific directions for the type of fertilizer you are using and to do some research. Over-fertilizing can be harmful, so determining the correct amount of fertilizer is crucial. As a general guideline, you can use the age of the tree (if known) or the diameter of the trunk to estimate the amount of fertilizer needed. Typically, it is recommended to use one-tenth of a pound of fertilizer per year or per inch of trunk, with a maximum of one pound. To apply granular or organic fertilizers like blood meal, sprinkle the substance around the base of the tree, extending all the way to the drip line (the outermost branches). Remember to avoid letting the fertilizer come in direct contact with the trunk. Over time, the granules will break down and filter into the soil for the roots to absorb. After fertilizing, it is beneficial to spread a layer of compost around the tree's base, about an inch deep, and water thoroughly.

🪴 Pot & Repot 2-3 years

The cornelian cherry is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to 5 meters tall. It should be repotted every 2 to 3 years in late winter, using a large container. Use well-draining soil and provide consistent watering after repotting to promote recovery and healthy growth.

Suggested frequency: 2-3 years
✂️ Pruning

The Cornelian cherry is a deciduous shrub known for its bright yellow flowers in the spring and its edible red fruits. To maintain its health and encourage flowering, it's best to prune in early spring. Focus on removing dead wood and overcrowded branches. Make sure your tools are clean to prevent the spread of disease. Proper pruning not only enhances growth but also improves the shrub's appearance.

🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity

Characteristics

Plant Type
Tree, Shrub
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Cornus
Family
Cornaceae
Hardiness Zone
3-7
Mature Height
4.88 m to 11.89 m
Mature Spread
3.66 m to 6.1 m
Leaf Color
Green, Yellow, Red, Purple
Leaf Type
Deciduous
Flower Color
Yellow
Flower Size
0.51 cm to 1.02 cm
Bloom Time
Early spring, Winter
Planting Time
Spring, Autumn
Harvest Time
Mid summer
Native Area
Turkey, Austria, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Bulgaria, Armenia, Greece, Croatia, Slovenia, Ukraine, Russia, Hungary, Germany, Syria, Italy, Switzerland, Iran, Albania, Azerbaijan, Romania, Belgium, France

Tags (14)

Common Names (18)

ar زغال اخته
en Dogwood
en Cornelian cherry
en Sorbet
en European Cornel
en Cornelian cherry dogwood
en Dren
en Drijen
en Drijenak
en Cornejo Macho
en Cornel cherry
en Male dogwood
en Cornul
en Pink Dogwood
en Dren (SRB)
en Kornelkirsche (DE)
en Cornel
ru Кизил обыкновенный