Cornus mas, Cornelian Cherry seedling Cricket Hill Garden

Cornus mas

The fruit of this dogwood species has been enjoyed by humans for millennia. A particular favorite of the ancient Greeks, it was widely planted in medieval monastery gardens throughout Europe. Today, it is still grown commercially in Turkey.

These plants are grown from seed collected from improved cultivar we grow here at the nursery. Will likely begin bearing in 3-4 years.

Cherry-like fruits ripen in the late summer and early fall. Good for fresh eating as well as dried or made into preserves. Cornus mas is highly ornamental in the early spring, with the entire tree covered in a profusion of small yellow blossoms.

Bears crops of striking, dark red, fruit, sweet and delicious. Fruit ripens in late August and is particularly nice for fresh eating.

Size at maturity: 15′ tall and and 7-8′ wide.

Site Selection: Ideally full-sun location, but will also grow and fruit in dappled sun locations. Adaptable to a range or soil types provided the planting location is well drained. Prefers a pH of around 6.5.

Cultivation: Partially self-fertile trees require little attention once established. Plant two for better fruit set. Cornus mas can be trained as a small standard tree or as a multi-stemmed shrub. For a mature tree it is only necessary to prune out dead, broken or crossed branches.

Zone hardiness, Pests, & Diseases: Hardy to USDA zone 5-7. Pest and disease free. Birds and critters will compete with humans for the harvest.

Plant size: 2 yr. seedling, container grown. 12-18″ tall.

When we ship: FALL 2024