Also known as Chinese Cornelian Dogwood · Japanese Cornel · Japanese Cornel Dogwood
Asiatic Dogwood (Cornus officinalis) is a multi-stemmed shrub or small tree known for its early spring yellow flowers and edible red fruit, widely used in traditional med
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers full sun to partial shade for best flowering and fruit production.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Hardy in USDA zones 5-8; prefers moderate temperatures, avoid extreme heat.
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release formula.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Asiatic Dogwood prefers consistent moisture, especially when young. Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering in winter dormancy, but do not let the soil dry out completely.
Prune Asiatic Dogwood in late winter or early spring before flowering. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Pruning can also be done after flowering to maintain shape and size, or to encourage bushier growth.
Avoid heavy pruning during summer.
Asiatic Dogwood can be propagated by semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer. Dip cuttings in rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining medium. It can also be propagated by grafting onto Cornus kousa rootstock.
Seed propagation is also possible but can be slow.
Young Asiatic Dogwood plants may benefit from repotting every 2-3 years, or when root-bound. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one. Repot in early spring before new growth starts.
Ensure good drainage in the new pot.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Asiatic Dogwood (Cornus officinalis)
Where Asiatic Dogwood (Cornus officinalis) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cornales |
| Family | Cornaceae |
| Genus | Cornus |
| Species | Cornus officinalis |
Similar in genus Cornus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
