Cornus officinalis
Japanese cornel
Common names: Medicinal cornel
Photo: Philipp Franz von Siebold and Joseph Gerhard Zuccarini · Public Domain · Source
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Description
The Japanese cornel (Cornus officinalis) is a close relative of the native European cornel. It blooms early, in February (weeks 7‑9), as one of the first shrubs with bright yellow flowers. Its elongated red fruits ripen in autumn and have a tart‑bitter taste, making them suitable for jelly, liqueur, or drying. In East‑Asian tradition it is valued as a medicinal plant. The shrub is sturdy, long‑lived, and winter hardy.
Care instructions
Plant the cornel in autumn (October, week 42) or spring (March, week 12) in a sunny to partially shaded spot with a lime‑rich, well‑draining soil. Once established it is self‑sufficient and drought tolerant. Prune only rarely, as it grows slowly; in late winter remove only dead or crossing branches.
Companion planting
Good neighbours
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