Set of 4 Cornelian Cherry – Cornus mas – Height 25cm – 9cm pot

Cornus mas, better known as the yellow dogwood or European cornel, is a hardy and versatile shrub that brings colour to the garden very early in the year. Even before most plants have begun to sprout, countless tiny yellow flowers appear on the bare branches, making this species an important source of food for early pollinating insects.

As well as its ornamental value, Cornus mas produces edible red berries that are rich in vitamin C. The combination of early flowering, an edible harvest, beautiful autumn colours and vigorous growth makes this plant suitable for both ornamental gardens and food forests.

Why choose Cornus mas?

• Very early yellow flowering in February and March
• Edible red dogwood cherries
• Beneficial to bees and other pollinators
• Beautiful autumn colours
• Suitable as a shrub, small tree or hedge
• Very hardy and robust

Contents of this set

• 4 x Cornus mas – yellow dogwood / dogwood cherries
- Pot size: 9 cm
• Height on delivery: approx. 25 cm (approximate)
• Total number of plants: 4

The plants are supplied in a 9 cm nursery pot. These are young plants that will continue to grow after planting. The height on delivery is therefore approximate and may vary depending on the season and stage of growth.

About Cornus mas

Cornus mas grows into a large shrub or small tree, reaching a mature height of around 3 to 7 metres. The plant forms a dense, rounded crown and, as it matures, develops a distinctive trunk with decorative bark.

In February and March, the striking yellow flowers appear even before the leaves emerge. This makes Cornus mas one of the earliest flowering woody plants in the garden.
After flowering, elongated red fruits develop, which ripen in August and September. Dogwood cherries have a fresh, slightly tart flavour and are often used to make jam, jelly, juice or syrup; birds also love dogwood cherries!
In autumn, the glossy green leaves turn beautiful shades of yellow and orange.

Care

Cornus mas is a hardy and undemanding plant. It grows in almost any well-drained soil and tolerates both full sun and partial shade. It usually grows best in nutrient-rich soil with sufficient moisture. It also tolerates calcareous soils well. After planting, regular watering is important until the plants are well established. After that, Cornus mas is very low-maintenance.

Prune

Pruning is usually not necessary. If desired, the plant can be pruned after flowering to maintain its shape.
Cornus mas tolerates pruning well and can therefore also be used as a hedge or a larger topiary shrub.

Winter care

The yellow dogwood is extremely hardy and perfectly suited to the British climate. It withstands temperatures well below freezing without any problems. The plant loses its leaves in winter and sprouts new growth in spring.

Use of the fruits

Dogwood cherries are edible and rich in vitamin C. The fruits are usually made into jam, jelly, juice, syrup or liqueur. Fully ripe fruits become softer and sweeter in flavour. Birds also often enjoy eating the fruits.

For lovers of edible gardens

Cornus mas is a valuable addition to food forests, natural gardens and edible landscapes. It combines well with other fruit bushes such as honeyberries, gooseberries, redcurrants and blueberries, ensuring a varied harvest throughout the season.