Cornus mas

The Cornus mas is a hardy deciduous shrub or small tree treasured as one of the very first plants to flower each year. Commonly known as the Cornelian cherry or European cornel, it opens masses of tiny, bright yellow flowers on bare branches in late winter, well before the leaves appear. Native to central and southern Europe and on to the Caucasus, it has been grown for centuries for both its ornamental value and its edible fruit.

A slow-growing but long-lived species, Cornus mas develops into a broad, multi-stemmed shrub or small tree, typically reaching around 58 m over many years. Its dark green leaves take on rich reddish-purple tones in autumn, while the older stems show attractive flaking grey-brown bark. In late summer it bears oblong, glossy red fruitsthe true cornelian cherrieswhich are pleasantly tart and prized for jams, syrups and liqueurs, as well as being loved by birds.

• Among the earliest shrubs to flower, with bright yellow blooms in late winter
• Produces oblong, edible red fruits with a tart flavour
• Dark green foliage turning reddish-purple in autumn
• Slow-growing and long-lived, forming a large shrub or small tree
• Excellent for wildlife, offering early nectar and later fruit

The Cornelian cherry combines year-round interest with genuine usefulness in the garden. From its cheerful late-winter flowers to its edible summer fruit and fiery autumn colour, Cornus mas is a rewarding, easy-going choice for hedges, mixed borders and wildlife plantings alike.

IMPORTANT: The pictures show the mother plant, which is not for sale. The offer includes a plant with the dimensions stated in the description.