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Description
Cornus Sanguinea, also known as the European Cornel, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the dogwood family. It is native to Europe, western Asia, and northern Africa. This plant can grow up to 5 meters tall and has a spread of 2.5 meters. It has dark green leaves that turn red in autumn and small white flowers that bloom in clusters during the summer. The flowers are followed by small, glossy, black or red berries that can last on the plant throughout winter. The bark of Cornus Sanguinea is dark red and becomes more visible in winter when the leaves have fallen.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cornales |
| Family | Cornaceae |
| Genus | Cornus |
Appearance
Cornus Sanguinea has a dense, bushy habit with an upright, spreading growth habit. Its leaves are opposite, ovate, and dark green in color. In the autumn, the leaves turn a bright red color before falling. The plant produces small, creamy-white flowers in late spring or early summer, which are followed by black or red berries in the fall. The bark of the Cornus Sanguinea is dark red and has a smooth texture.
Care Guide
Cornus Sanguinea requires minimal care once established. Here are some care tips to keep this plant healthy:
- Water: Water the plant regularly during the first year to help establish a strong root system. After that, it can tolerate periods of drought.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year with a balanced fertilizer in the spring.
- Soil: Cornus Sanguinea prefers moist, well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate shade, but it may not produce as many flowers or berries.
- Hardiness Zones: Cornus Sanguinea is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cornus Sanguinea is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to the following:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause stunted growth and yellowing leaves.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown or black spots on the leaves of the plant.
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease can cause brown or black spots on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant.
Habitat
Cornus Sanguinea is native to Europe, western Asia, and northern Africa. It grows in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, hedgerows, and scrubland. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of soil types. This plant is often used in hedges or as a screen due to its dense growth habit.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cornus Sanguinea poisonous?
A: No, Cornus Sanguinea is not toxic to humans or animals. However, the berries can cause mild stomach upset if ingested.
Q: Can Cornus Sanguinea be pruned?
A: Yes, Cornus Sanguinea can be pruned in late winter or early spring to help maintain its shape and size.
Q: Does Cornus Sanguinea attract wildlife?
A: Yes, Cornus Sanguinea is attractive to birds and other wildlife due to its berries.
Q: How tall does Cornus Sanguinea grow?
A: Cornus Sanguinea can grow up to 5 meters tall and has a spread of 2.5 meters.
Related Plants
- Cornus alba
- Cornus canadensis
- Cornus florida
- Cornus kousa
- Cornus mas
- Cornus nuttallii
- Cornus sericea
References
- “Cornus Sanguinea.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/7012/Cornus-sanguinea/Details.
- “Cornus Sanguinea.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=k480.
- “Cornus Sanguinea.” Plant Finder, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=258939&isprofile=0.
