Species Japanese cornelian cherry
bright-red fruits with lime leaves, pink-orange petioles and beige-brown branches

Japanese cornelian cherry

Cornus officinalis

Japanese cornelian cherry (Cornus officinalis) is an amazing species for any garden. Its aromatic white and yellow flowers bloom in early spring, providing an exquisite view. This species is also a great pollinator - the birds and bees that come by are attracted by its unique color and fragrance. In late summer, the plant produces small, edible red cherries that have a tart yet subtly sweet flavor. Beyond its ornamental and food benefits, the Japanese cornelian cherry tree is also highly adaptive to a variety of climates, making it a resilient species for any gardener.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Grafting Propagation,Layering Propagation,Cutting,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

5 - 8

Flowers:

Yellow Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Fruits:

Fruits Ready In

Edible:

Yes

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Japanese cornelian cherry should be watered deeply to saturate the soil; aim for 1-2 inches of rainwater, or its equivalent in irrigation, per week. During hot periods, or when the soil is light or sandy, a deeper watering once or twice a week should be applied. The soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering, which can cause the roots to rot.

sunlight

Japanese cornelian cherry needs full sunlight all year round to thrive. In summer, it should get full sun for at least 8-10 hours a day. In winter, it needs some protection from wind and frost, so choose a sheltered spot for planting. It’s important to ensure that Japanese cornelian cherry is getting enough sunlight during its growth period. It can tolerate shade, but should get full sun for 6-8 hours a day for optimal growth and health. In more northern parts of the US, it is best to give the plant indirect sunlight or a shaded spot during the hottest hours of the day.

pruning

Pruning should be done twice a year for Japanese cornelian cherry (Cornus officinalis). In late winter or early spring, prune away crossing or dead branches. Then in late winter/early spring again, prune for shape and size. Be careful when pruning, as Japanese cornelian cherry does not respond well to hard pruning. If you need to reduce the size of the shrub significantly, it is best to do so over a period of years by gradually removing the larger branches.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit

The harvesting season for Cornus officinalis typically begins in late August and continues through September.

Starts Flowering

Japanese cornelian cherry typically starts flowering in April.

Harvest Fruit

The harvesting season for Cornus officinalis typically begins in late August and continues through September.

Hardiness Map