Cornus mas

Description:
This species of Dogwood deserves better recognition in general horticulture. It is a small to medium sized deciduous tree, growing up to 5-7 meters (15-20ft) in height, with a similar spread. In late winter delicate clusters of beautifully scented yellow flowers emerge before the leaves. Bloom time can last well over a month. The bright to dark red fruit, known as Cornelian Cherries or Cornels, develop and ripen near the end of summer. The fruit is edible and suitable for a number a dishes, both sweet and savoury. In the autumn the leaves turn rich shades of scarlet tinged with purple.

Notes:
<blockquote> <strong><u>Simple Cornel Syrup</u></strong> <br> <br> To extract the juice, wash and pit the fruit and pack into a measuring cup, add an equal amount of sugar. You may use less if you wish, but these fruit are very tart. Bring mixture to a gentle boil in a heavy saucepan, then reduce heat and simmer for five minutes. Strain through a sieve, or, for very clear syrup, strain through a jelly bag. <br> <strong><br> <u>Savoury Cornel Sauce for Meats</u><br> <br> </strong>1 cup (250ml) pitted Cornels<br> 1 cup (250ml) brown sugar<br> 1 tablespoon (15ml) Dijon Mustard<br> 1 tablespoon (15ml) Teriyaki Sauce<br> <br> Place the pitted Cornels and brown sugar in a small heavy saucepan and bring to a gentle boil, add Dijon Mustard and Teriyaki Sauce and simmer for five minutes. This sauce is excellent with chicken or turkey, and is superb as a glaze for ham.</blockquote>

Cultivation:
For maximum freshness, please keep seed refrigerated in its original packaging until it is time to plant. Sow large seeds in containers in late winter to early spring. Cover with a thin layer of scree (fine pebbles - to prevent rain from splashing out soil). Grow in average to moderately fertile garden soil.