SCIENTIFIC NAME: Cornus mas

COMMON NAME: Cornelian Cherry Dogwood

GARDEN SIZE: 15–25 feet tall by 15–20 feet wide

GROWTH RATE: Moderate

USDA ZONE: 4–8

Part shade or filtered sunlight

WATER & SOIL: Prefers moist, well-drained, organically rich soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Requires regular watering during the first 1–2 years, especially in dry spells. Once established, may have moderate drought tolerance, but still benefits from occasional deep watering during prolonged dry periods. Avoid compacted clay or poorly drained sites.

HABIT (FORM): Dense, rounded to oval, multi-trunked

FOLIAGE: Deciduous; glossy green turning yellow to reddish-purple in fall

FLOWERS: Small yellow clusters bloom in late winter to early spring

PLANT ORIGIN: Central and southern Europe into western Asia

WILDLIFE SUPPORT: May provide some nesting sites and shelter for birds and small mammals, but does not serve as much of a food source for local insects and wildlife.

FERTILIZING: Generally not required. If desired, apply a layer of organic compost in early spring to support growth and soil health.

PRUNING: Minimal pruning needed. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter to early spring before new growth begins. Avoid heavy pruning, as it can reduce flowering.

TOXICITY FLAGS: Dogwoods are generally considered non-toxic. Edible.

USES: Early flowering specimen, edible landscape, large foundation planting