Also known as Cornejo Macho · Cornel · Cornel Cherry
Cornelian cherry (Cornus mas) is a deciduous shrub or small tree prized for its early spring yellow flowers and edible red fruit.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers full sun for best flowering and fruiting, but tolerates partial shade.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, especially for young plants. Water deeply during dry periods.
Well-drained, fertile soil
50% intensity
Cold Hardy
25% intensity
Thrives in temperate climates and is very cold-hardy.
Low
25% intensity
Requires minimal fertilization; a light feeding in spring is usually sufficient.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Cornelian cherry prefers consistently moist soil, especially when young. Water deeply during dry spells to encourage strong root development.
Allow the top few centimeters of soil to dry out between waterings once established. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot.
Pruning is primarily done to shape the plant, remove dead or crossing branches, and improve air circulation. For fruiting, prune after harvest. To encourage a more shrub-like form, remove suckers from the base.
Minimal pruning is often best to maximize fruit production.
Cornelian cherry can be propagated by seeds, which require stratification, or by semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer. It can also be propagated by root cuttings or layering.
Seed propagation can result in variable fruit quality and delayed fruiting.
Repotting is rarely necessary for established Cornus mas trees or shrubs as they are long-lived and prefer not to be disturbed. If container-grown plants become root-bound, repot into a slightly larger container in early spring before new growth begins, using a well-draining potting mix.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Cornelian Cherry (Cornus mas)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cornales |
| Family | Cornaceae |
| Genus | Cornus |
| Species | Cornus mas |
Similar in genus Cornus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
