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Dwarf Cornel

Cornus suecica

Please keep in mind that it is illegal to uproot a plant without the landowner's consent and care should be taken at all times not to damage wild plants. Wild plants should never be picked for pleasure and some plants are protected by law.
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Contents

Plant Profile

Flowering Months:
JAN  FEB  MAR  APR  MAY  JUN  JUL  AUG  SEP  OCT  NOV  DEC
Order:
Cornales
Family:
Cornaceae (Dogwood)
Type:
Deciduous shrub
Life Cycle:
Perennial
Maximum Size:
120 centimetres tall
Habitats:
Gardens, heathland, moorland, mountains, woodland.

Flower:
֍
Purple, 4 petals
 
Small, dark purple flowers that appear in umbels. The flowers measure just 2 or 3mm across and are surrounded by 4 large and conspicuous, creamy white petal-like bracts. The bracts are 1 to 1.5cm across. Pollinated by flies and bees.
Fruit:
The fruit is a red berry.
Leaves:
A dwarf perennial shrub with stalkless, pointed oval leaves and prominent veins. The leaves are in opposite pairs along the stems. Normally found hidden growing under heather or bilberry.
Other Names:
Bunchberry, Dwarf Honeysuckle, European Cornel, Lapland Cornel, Plant of Gluttony, Swedish Dogwood.
Frequency (UK):
Unusual  

Other Information

Summary

Cornus suecica, also known as Swedish dogwood or European cornel, is a plant species in the Cornaceae family. It is native to Europe and parts of Asia, and is a small deciduous shrub with green, oval-shaped leaves and clusters of small, white flowers that bloom in the summer. In the fall, the plant produces small, blue-black fruit that are eaten by birds. Cornus suecica is often found growing in wooded areas and is sometimes grown in gardens for its attractive flowers and fruit. The plant is also used in traditional herbal medicine, and the bark and roots are believed to have astringent, tonic, and diuretic properties.

Blog

Dwarf Cornel, also known as Cornus suecica, is a beautiful and compact shrub that is native to Europe and Asia. With its attractive and glossy leaves and delicate white flowers, this plant is a must-have for gardeners looking to add a touch of elegance to their landscape.

The Dwarf Cornel is a slow-growing plant that typically grows to a height of 3 to 4 feet, with a similar spread. The leaves of this plant are a vibrant green color and are oval in shape. They are smooth and glossy, and grow up to 4 inches long. In the spring, the Dwarf Cornel produces clusters of small white flowers that are surrounded by bracts that resemble petals. These flowers are very fragrant and are a favorite of bees and other pollinators.

In addition to its beauty, the Dwarf Cornel is also known for its toughness and adaptability. This plant is hardy and can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions, including both full sun and partial shade. It is also tolerant of drought and will do well in soils that are poor or rocky. This makes it an ideal choice for gardeners who live in areas with challenging growing conditions.

When it comes to care, the Dwarf Cornel is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal attention. It is important to water the plant regularly, especially during the first few years after planting. This will help to establish a strong root system and ensure that the plant is able to thrive. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged wood and to promote bushier growth.

The Dwarf Cornel is a versatile and attractive shrub that is well-suited to a wide range of growing conditions. With its delicate flowers, glossy leaves, and adaptability, this plant is a must-have for any gardener looking to add a touch of beauty to their landscape. Whether you are planting in a garden bed or in containers, the Dwarf Cornel is sure to bring a touch of elegance and charm to your outdoor space.

The Dwarf Cornel is also a great choice for those who are looking for a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Unlike many other shrubs, the Dwarf Cornel does not require regular fertilizing or pest control. This means that gardeners can enjoy its beauty without having to put in a lot of time and effort to maintain it.

In addition to its ease of care, the Dwarf Cornel is also known for its versatility. This plant is great for use in a variety of garden designs, from rock gardens to woodland gardens. It can also be used as a specimen plant or as a border plant to add interest to a garden bed. Its compact size makes it perfect for small gardens or for planting in containers, and it can also be used in mixed borders for a stunning display.

One of the most appealing aspects of the Dwarf Cornel is its attractive foliage. The glossy leaves are a standout feature, and they are sure to catch the eye of anyone who sees them. The leaves are also a great contrast to other plants in the garden, and they can add texture and interest to any outdoor space.

Finally, it's worth mentioning that the Dwarf Cornel is also a great choice for wildlife enthusiasts. The plant is a great source of food and habitat for birds, butterflies, and other wildlife, making it an ideal choice for those who are interested in creating a wildlife-friendly garden.

The Dwarf Cornel is a beautiful and versatile shrub that is easy to care for and perfect for a wide range of garden designs. With its attractive foliage, delicate flowers, and low-maintenance requirements, this plant is sure to become a favorite in any garden. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or a beginner, the Dwarf Cornel is a must-have for anyone who wants to add a touch of elegance and charm to their outdoor space.

Another great aspect of the Dwarf Cornel is that it is a great plant for all seasons. In the spring and summer, the plant is adorned with delicate white flowers, which are a real delight for the eyes. In the fall, the foliage of the Dwarf Cornel turns a vibrant shade of red or purple, adding an extra pop of color to the garden. This is a great way to extend the interest of the plant beyond the growing season and ensure that it is a focal point in the garden year-round.

In addition to its beauty, the Dwarf Cornel is also an excellent plant for its medicinal properties. Some parts of the plant have been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including skin problems, digestive issues, and respiratory problems. The plant is also thought to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a useful herb for many different health conditions.

Another great feature of the Dwarf Cornel is its low toxicity level. This means that it is a safe plant for pets and children, and it can be planted in areas where children and pets play without any worries. This is a great benefit for those who have families and want to create a safe and healthy environment in their outdoor space.

Another great benefit of the Dwarf Cornel is that it is a very easy plant to propagate. This makes it a great choice for those who are looking to create a larger garden or for those who want to share the plant with friends and family. Propagation can be done through softwood cuttings or through division of the plant. Both methods are simple and straightforward, making it easy for even novice gardeners to grow more Dwarf Cornel plants.

The Dwarf Cornel is also a great choice for those who are looking to create a low-maintenance garden. This plant is drought-tolerant and can handle dry conditions without any problems. It also has a moderate tolerance for pests and diseases, so gardeners do not have to worry about frequent treatments.

Finally, it is worth mentioning that the Dwarf Cornel is a great choice for gardeners who are looking for a sustainable plant option. This plant is native to Europe and Asia, so it is well-adapted to the local conditions and does not require a lot of resources to grow. This makes it a great option for those who are interested in creating a low-impact garden that is sustainable and eco-friendly.

In conclusion, the Dwarf Cornel is a beautiful and versatile plant that is easy to care for and offers a range of benefits to gardeners. With its attractive flowers, colorful foliage, low-maintenance requirements, medicinal properties, and easy propagation, this plant is sure to be a standout in any garden. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or a beginner, the Dwarf Cornel is a must-have for anyone who wants to add a touch of beauty and elegance to their outdoor space.


Distribution Map

Reproduced by kind permission of the BSBI.

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