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Cornus mas (Cornelian Cherry)

The Cornelian Cherry shares similar leaves and the same red fall color as the popular dogwood. It is a large, rounded shrub, growing up to 20 feet tall. The fruit, about 3/4" x 1/2", is plentiful and ripens in August. A few days after picking, the fruits soften and develop a fresh taste reminiscent of canned cranberry sauce. In late winter or very early spring, its yellow blossoms bloom on gray branches, rivaling witch hazel in beauty. It blooms around the same time as daffodils.

Key Growing Information:

• Needs a mate for fruit
• Spacing: 20 feet apart
• Zones: 4-7

Plant Characteristics:

• Pest Resistance: Excellent
• Disease Resistance: Excellent
• Drought Tolerance: Good
• Heat Tolerance: Good
• Humidity Tolerance: Good
• Sun Tolerance: Good
• Wet Soil Tolerance: Fair
• Shade Tolerance: Good
• No Spray Requirement: Excellent
• Salt Tolerance: Poor
• Edible for Kids: Fair
• Deer Resistance: Fair
• Thorns: None
• Plant Type: Shrub
• Soil Type: Adaptable
• Edible Type: Fruit
• Self-Fertile: No

This information is accurate to the best of our knowledge; comments and opinions are always welcome.