The Cornus mas Plant
The Cornus mas, also known as Cornelian cherry, is a deciduous flowering plant that is a part of the dogwood family. The plant is native to Europe and western Asia, and it has been cultivated for thousands of years for its ornamental and culinary uses.
Common Names
The Cornus mas plant is commonly known as Cornelian cherry, European cornel, dogwood, or simply cornel. In some regions, it is also referred to as sorbet berries or tart cherries, because of its sour taste.
Uses
The Cornus mas plant has been used for various purposes throughout history. In ancient times, the fruit was used by the Greeks and Romans for culinary and medicinal purposes. It is still popular today for its edible fruit, which can be eaten raw, dried, or used to make jams, syrups, and liqueurs.
In addition to its culinary uses, the Cornus mas plant is also popular in gardens and as an ornamental plant. Its bright yellow flowers bloom in early spring, before most other trees and shrubs, making it a welcome sight in the garden. Its attractive bark, which is dark brown and almost black, makes it a popular choice for landscaping.
Furthermore, the plant has various medicinal properties. It is often used to treat diarrhea, fever, and other ailments. The fruit is also believed to have antioxidant properties and may help improve blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.
General Appearance
The Cornus mas plant is a small tree or large shrub that can grow up to 6 meters in height. It has a broad, spreading crown and thin, smooth bark that is dark brown or black. The flowers are small and yellow, and they appear in clusters in early spring, before the leaves emerge. The fruit is a small, oblong, red berry that ripens in late summer or early fall. The leaves are green, ovate, and have a smooth texture. In the fall, they turn shades of yellow, orange, and red, adding to the plant's ornamental value.
Light Conditions
Cornus mas prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may experience reduced flowering and fruiting in shadier areas. It is capable of growing in direct sunlight as well, but some protection during the hottest parts of the day may be necessary in extremely hot climates.
Temperature Requirements
While Cornus mas can tolerate a range of temperatures, it grows best in moderate climates. Optimum growth temperature ranges from 15-25°C (59-77°F), but it can survive in much colder temperatures and even withstand winter temperatures as low as -25°C (-13°F). In warmer climates, it may require additional protection or watering during dry spells.
Soil Requirements
Cornus mas thrives in well-draining soil that is loamy and rich in organic matter. The pH range of the soil should be acidic to neutral, preferably between 5.5-7.5. It can tolerate mild drought but will benefit from regular watering during periods of extended drought.
The plant has a shallow root system and is sensitive to waterlogging, so it is essential to avoid planting it in areas of poor drainage. Addition of compost or manure can help improve soil quality and structure, leading to better growth and good fruiting.
Cultivation methods
Cornus Mas, commonly known as the Cornelian cherry, is a hardy deciduous shrub that grows best in well-drained soil with a pH range of 6 to 7.5. It prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate cold temperatures during the winter months. It can be propagated through seeds or cuttings, but it is best to plant it in the fall to allow the roots to become established before the growing season.
Watering needs
The Cornelian cherry requires moderate watering during the growing season. It is drought tolerant once established, but its growth and fruiting can be improved by consistent soil moisture. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. It is best to water deeply once or twice a week, depending on the soil type and weather conditions.
Fertilization
Cornus mas responds well to balanced fertilizers, such as 10-10-10 or 20-20-20. Fertilize in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Use a slow-release fertilizer, as excessive nitrogen can lead to weak growth and reduced fruiting. Consider supplementing with organic fertilizers, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to improve soil texture and fertility.
Pruning
Cornelian cherry can be pruned to maintain its shape and size. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Remove dead or diseased wood first, followed by crossing or rubbing branches. It is best to prune lightly to encourage fruiting, as heavy pruning can reduce the number of flowers and fruit. Remove suckers from the base of the plant to prevent overcrowding and maintain air circulation.
Propagation of Cornus mas
Cornus mas can be propagated by various methods, including seed sowing, layering, cutting, and grafting. Each method has its own advantages, and the choice of method may depend on the availability of plant materials and the intended purpose of propagation.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagating Cornus mas. Seeds are collected from ripe fruits and sown immediately in a well-drained seedling mix. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 2-3 times their diameter. Germination usually occurs within 2-3 weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted to individual containers once they have developed a few true leaves.
Layering
Layering is a method of propagation where a stem is bent down and buried in the soil while still attached to the parent plant. The stem will eventually develop roots, and the new plant can be separated from the parent. Cornus mas can be propagated by layering in late spring or early summer when the stems are flexible. The stem to be layered should be slit or scraped on the bottom side to encourage rooting. The layered stem can be left in place until it is well-rooted, or it can be removed and potted up as a new plant.
Cutting
Cutting is a method of propagation where a stem or leaf is removed from the parent plant and rooted to create a new plant. Cornus mas can be propagated by cuttings taken from softwood or hardwood stems. Softwood cuttings are taken in late spring or early summer when the stems are still green and flexible. Hardwood cuttings are taken in the fall when the stems have hardened off. Cuttings should be taken from healthy, disease-free plants and dipped in rooting hormone before being stuck in a well-drained propagation mix. The cuttings should be kept moist and out of direct sunlight until they have developed roots.
Grafting
Grafting is a method of propagation where a scion from a desired variety is attached to a rootstock of a different plant. Cornus mas can be grafted using various methods, including whip grafting, bark grafting, and approach grafting. Grafting is usually done in late winter or early spring when the plant is dormant. The scion should be taken from a healthy, disease-free plant of the desired variety, and the rootstock should be from a hardy, disease-resistant plant of the same species. Graft union should be protected with grafting tape or wax until it has fully formed.
Disease and Pest Management for Cornus mas
Cornus mas, commonly known as Cornelian cherry, is generally disease and pest resistant, making it an easy plant to maintain. However, like any other plant, it can still be affected by certain pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common ones, and how to manage and treat them:
Diseases
Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that attacks the leaves, twigs, and fruits of the Cornelian cherry. Symptoms include brown spots on leaves, defoliation, and sunken areas on fruits. To manage the disease, prune and remove all infected twigs and leaves, and apply a fungicide.
Powdery Mildew: This is a fungal disease that forms a white, powdery growth on the leaves and stems of the plant. It can cause the leaves to curl and twist, and reduce the plant's overall health. To manage the disease, increase the air circulation around the plant, prune affected areas, and apply a fungicide.
Pests
Aphids: These are small, sap-sucking insects that can attack the Cornelian cherry and cause leaves to curl, yellow, and drop. They also produce a sticky substance known as honeydew, which can attract other pests and cause fungal diseases. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong jet of water, or apply insecticidal soap.
Mites: These are tiny pests that feed on the plant's sap and cause leaves to turn yellow and drop. They also produce webbing, which can be seen on the undersides of leaves. To manage mites, rinse the plant with water, prune affected areas, and apply a miticide.
Scale insects: These pests attach themselves to the bark of the plant and suck its sap, causing leaves to yellow and drop. They also produce a sticky substance known as honeydew, which can attract other pests and cause fungal diseases. To manage scale insects, prune affected areas, and apply horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.
Regular monitoring and proper pruning can help prevent and manage both diseases and pests. It's important to always follow the manufacturer's instructions when using fungicides or insecticides, and to wear protective clothing when using these products.
