Dogwood Seeds, Cornelian Cherry
(Cornus mas) Zones 4 - 8. Deciduous tree.
Wow, wow, wow! What a gem. Cornelian Cherry, actually in the dogwood family, is one of the plants we are most excited about. This is another "forgotten fruit", with a rich history, especially in ancient Greece. This tree is making a comeback in permaculture and culinary circles and for good reason.
After only four years, this little tree will bear massive crops of small, red fruits. These are about the size sour cherries, only oblong and similar in taste. They can be eaten raw or transformed into any number of recipes including juice, jams, jellies and pies.
Like the persimmon, Cornelian Cherries are best enjoyed fully ripe and hold the perfect combination of sour cherry, wild plum and cranberry. Be warned: An unripe Cornelian Cherry is very astringent and will dry up your mouth pretty quick! Remember that patience is a virtue. Fruit will ripen on the tree and drop when ready. It is best to lay a tarp to gather the cherries.
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Cold Hardiness: Zones 4 - 8
Edible: Yes
Size: Small Tree
Growth Rate: Medium
Nitrogen Fixer: No
Native Plant: No
Germination: 60 - 80%
Sun Requirements: Prefers partial shade.
Soil Preference: Average, well draining. Prefers cooler roots, so mulch for Summer.
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GROWING INSTRUCTIONS
- Soak Seeds 24 hrs. Follow with 180 days warm, moist stratification, followed by 90 days cold, moist stratification. This may sound long and complicated, but you can simply plant them in outdoors in the Spring for germination the following Spring. For more information on stratification, check out our article "How To Start Your Tree Seeds".
*If you are do decided to cold stratify in your fridge, please check on your seeds. 90 days is an estimate & they may sprout sooner.*
- Heat mats are NOT required & can hinder germination!
- Protect young tree seedlings from slugs, cutworms & rodents. Slugs especially can eat primary leaves as soon as they come up, so be vigilant!
*Excited about growing Fruit Trees from seed? Learn more HERE.*
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Available direct from Incredible Seeds, a Canadian Heirloom and Heritage Seed Company, offering only the best natural, non-GMO, open pollinated and untreated seeds, located in Mi'kma'ki / Nova Scotia.
