Cornus sanguinea
Cornus sanguinea
Plant Images
OneSeed Image
Description
Cornus sanguinea, commonly known as the Common Dogwood or Bloodtwig Dogwood, is a deciduous shrub native to Europe and western Asia. It thrives in a variety of habitats, from woodlands to riverbanks, showcasing its adaptability. This plant is characterized by its vibrant red stems, especially noticeable in winter, and its lush green leaves that turn a striking red or purple in autumn. In spring, it produces small, creamy-white flowers that are a magnet for pollinators, followed by dark blue-black berries in late summer. Historically, Cornus sanguinea has been valued for its ecological role, providing food and habitat for wildlife. Its dense thickets offer shelter to birds and small mammals, while its berries are a food source for various bird species. In regenerative agriculture, it is appreciated for its ability to stabilize soil and prevent erosion, making it a valuable component in hedgerows and riparian buffers. The plant's presence in a landscape enhances biodiversity, supporting a range of insects and animals. Its vibrant colors and structural form add aesthetic value to natural and designed landscapes. As we look to the future, Cornus sanguinea holds potential in sustainable agriculture systems, contributing to soil health and ecosystem resilience. Its ability to thrive in diverse conditions makes it a promising candidate for restoring degraded lands and enhancing biodiversity in agroecological settings.
Growing Details
Cornus sanguinea is a resilient shrub that thrives in a range of soil types, from clay to sandy loam, preferring well-drained conditions. It is tolerant of both full sun and partial shade, making it versatile in various garden settings. Propagation is typically done through seeds or hardwood cuttings. Seeds require stratification to break dormancy, while cuttings should be taken in late autumn or winter. Regular watering is essential during the establishment phase, but once mature, the plant is drought-tolerant. Fertilization is generally not necessary, as the plant can thrive in nutrient-poor soils. Pruning is recommended in late winter to maintain shape and encourage new growth. In permaculture systems, Cornus sanguinea can be integrated into hedgerows or used as a pioneer species in reforestation projects. Its adaptability and low maintenance make it an excellent choice for natural farming and agroecological landscapes.
Edible Parts
Leaves
Fruit
Tags
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Bee Friendly
Visual Appeal
Easy Propagating
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Cornus sanguinea</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> — Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Europe, W. Asia
applicable geo region: Europe, Asia
language used: english
Flowering:
middle
of May for 30 days
Harvest:
beginning
of October for 30 days
Seed Start:
middle
of September
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(3/5)
edible uses: The berries of Cornus sanguinea, though not commonly consumed due to their astringent taste, can be used in culinary applications. They are best harvested in late summer when fully ripe. Traditionally, these berries have been used to make jams and jellies, often combined with sweeter fruits to balance their tartness. They can also be dried and used as a flavoring agent in teas or fermented to produce a unique alcoholic beverage. Nutritionally, the berries are a source of vitamin C and antioxidants. In some cultures, they are used in sauces and preserves, adding a tangy flavor to dishes. Proper storage involves drying or freezing the berries to extend their shelf life. While not a staple food, Cornus sanguinea berries offer a unique culinary experience for those interested in foraging and wild food preparation.
Medicinal Rating:
(2/5)
medicinal uses: In traditional medicine, Cornus sanguinea has been used for its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties. The bark and leaves contain active compounds such as tannins, which have been utilized in herbal remedies to treat diarrhea and dysentery. Poultices made from the leaves have been applied to wounds to promote healing and reduce inflammation. Historically, teas made from the bark were consumed to alleviate fever and as a general tonic. Modern research into the plant's medicinal properties is limited, but its traditional uses highlight its potential in natural medicine. It is important to note that while Cornus sanguinea has been used in folk medicine, scientific validation of its efficacy and safety is still needed. As with any medicinal plant, proper identification and preparation are crucial to avoid adverse effects.
health concerns: While Cornus sanguinea is generally considered safe, its berries can cause mild gastrointestinal upset if consumed in large quantities due to their astringent nature. Individuals with sensitive stomachs should consume them in moderation. There are no known toxic compounds in the plant, but it is advisable to avoid consumption during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to limited research on its safety in these conditions. As with any wild plant, proper identification is essential to avoid confusion with potentially harmful species. In case of overconsumption, symptoms such as nausea or diarrhea may occur, and it is recommended to seek medical advice if symptoms persist.
other uses: Beyond its ecological and culinary applications, Cornus sanguinea has several non-food uses. Its flexible stems have been traditionally used in basket weaving and crafting, valued for their strength and durability. The plant's vibrant red twigs are popular in floral arrangements and decorative displays, especially in winter when their color is most striking. In permaculture, Cornus sanguinea is used as a companion plant, providing habitat for beneficial insects and contributing to soil health through its leaf litter. It is also employed in erosion control projects, stabilizing soil on slopes and riverbanks. The plant's dense growth habit makes it an effective windbreak and privacy screen in landscape design. Additionally, its historical use in traditional crafts and its role in supporting biodiversity highlight its cultural and ecological significance.
Scientific Literature
Loading scientific articles about <strong>Cornus sanguinea</strong>...
Botanical data
specie: Cornus sanguinea
common names: Svim
family: Cornaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Cornus
Growing Conditions
area needed: 2.0 m
spacing: 1.5 m
growing difficulty: Medium
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20°C / 10°C / 30°C
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 18°C / -5°C / 35°C
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: Medium
root type: Medium
frost tender: Low
hardness:
█
█
█
█
█
▁
▁
▁
▁
▁
(5/10)
first harvest: 2 years
life span: None years
succession:
growth rate: Fast
max height: 4.0 m
max width: 4.0 m
soil preference:
pH preference:
flower type:
growth details: Cornus sanguinea is a resilient shrub that thrives in a range of soil types, from clay to sandy loam, preferring well-drained conditions. It is tolerant of both full sun and partial shade, making it versatile in various garden settings. Propagation is typically done through seeds or hardwood cuttings. Seeds require stratification to break dormancy, while cuttings should be taken in late autumn or winter. Regular watering is essential during the establishment phase, but once mature, the plant is drought-tolerant. Fertilization is generally not necessary, as the plant can thrive in nutrient-poor soils. Pruning is recommended in late winter to maintain shape and encourage new growth. In permaculture systems, Cornus sanguinea can be integrated into hedgerows or used as a pioneer species in reforestation projects. Its adaptability and low maintenance make it an excellent choice for natural farming and agroecological landscapes.
Potential Disturbances: Cornus sanguinea is relatively resistant to ecological pressures, but it can occasionally be affected by aphids and scale insects. These challenges can be identified by the sticky honeydew they produce and the presence of sooty mold on leaves. Natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings can help manage aphid populations.
Permanent Link
Scan this QR code for a permanent link to this plant:
Download QR Code
Loading comments...