Cornus Mas (Cornelian Cherry)

Cornus mas, commonly known as Cornelian Cherry, is a versatile deciduous shrub or small ornamental tree valued for its very early flowers, attractive fruit and excellent autumn colour. It is a great choice for mixed borders, wildlife gardens, hedging, woodland-style planting and specimen planting.

One of its main features is its early flowering period. From approximately January to March, clusters of small, bright yellow flowers appear on the bare branches, providing valuable colour and interest when little else is in flower. These are followed by glossy, oblong red fruits in summer, which are attractive to birds and can also be used for making jellies and preserves.

The long, oval leaves are dark green through spring and summer before developing attractive shades of red and purple in autumn.

Cornelian Cherry can be grown as a large shrub or trained as a small tree. If left to mature naturally, it can eventually reach approximately 6–8 metres or more, but it can also be pruned to maintain a smaller size.

Its combination of very early yellow flowers, red summer fruit and strong autumn colour makes it an excellent specimen or feature plant, while its dense growth also makes it useful for informal screening and wildlife-friendly hedging.

Plant in full sun or partial shade in well-drained soil. Cornus mas is a hardy and adaptable plant, making it a reliable choice for a wide range of UK gardens.