Cornus officinalis

Error creating thumbnail:

Cornus officinalis SZ50

Cornus officinalis5

Cornus officinalis, commonly known as the Japanese cornel or Japanese cornelian cherry, is a species of flowering plant in the dogwood family, Cornaceae. It is native to China, Japan, and Korea. This deciduous shrub or small tree is valued for its early spring flowers, edible fruit, and medicinal properties.

Description

Cornus officinalis typically grows to a height of 5-10 meters. The bark is grayish-brown and exfoliates in small flakes. The leaves are opposite, simple, and ovate to elliptic, measuring 6-12 cm in length. They turn a reddish-purple color in the fall.

Flowers

The plant produces small, yellow flowers in early spring, before the leaves emerge. The flowers are arranged in clusters and are hermaphroditic, containing both male and female reproductive organs.

Fruit

The fruit of Cornus officinalis is a drupe, which turns red when ripe. It is about 1-2 cm long and contains a single seed. The fruit is edible and has a sour taste. It is often used in traditional Chinese medicine.

Cultivation

Cornus officinalis prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. It thrives in full sun to partial shade. The plant is relatively hardy and can withstand cold temperatures.

Uses

Medicinal

In traditional Chinese medicine, the fruit of Cornus officinalis, known as Shan Zhu Yu, is used to treat a variety of ailments, including liver and kidney deficiencies, excessive sweating, and dizziness. The fruit is believed to have astringent and tonic properties.

Ornamental

Cornus officinalis is also grown as an ornamental plant for its attractive flowers and fall foliage. It is often used in gardens and parks.

Related Species

• Cornus mas - Cornelian cherry
• Cornus florida - Flowering dogwood
• Cornus kousa - Kousa dogwood

Related Pages

• Cornaceae
• Traditional Chinese medicine
• Deciduous plant