Cornus officinalis

RHS Plant Profile
Japanese cornelian cherry

Other common names

Japanese cornel

Shrubs

A vigorous spreading shrub with rough, flaking brown bark and ovate dark green leaves turning red-purple in autumn. Yellow flowers are produced in in loose umbels, 2cm across, in late winter before the leaves open. They are followed by edible bright-red fruits

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

4-8 metres

Max Spread

4-8 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
5–10 years
Max Spread
4-8 metres
Max Height
4-8 metres

Growing Conditions

Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained or Well–drained
pH
Acid or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H6

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Cornaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Genus
Cornus can be deciduous shrubs or trees, or creeping, woody-based perennials, some with brightly coloured young stems. Tiny flowers are borne in dense clusters, sometimes with showy bracts. Many have fine autumn colour
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
China

How to Grow

Cultivation

Tolerant of a range of soils and locations but best in fertile, humus-rich well-drained neutral to acid soil in full sun or part shade. For more advice, see flowering dogwood cultivation

Propagation

Propagate by seed in autumn or stratify and sow in spring or propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden

Pruning

Pruning group 1

Pests

Generally pest-free but may be susceptible to horse chestnut scale

Diseases

May be susceptible to cornus anthracnose and honey fungus