Characteristics
The Cornelian cherry is also called Herlitze, Hirlnuss or yellow dogwood. It listens to the botanical species name Cornus mas. It reaches heights and widths of 6-8 meters. It grows upright and also expansive. The whirl nut forms a flaky and flaky bark.It offers birds and insects in particular a rich source of food and safe nesting sites. The cornel is a very robust wild wood that is also wonderfully suitable as a pioneer wood. Shadier locations are also well tolerated.
Pollination and foliage
Cornus mas is monoic. Pollination is carried out by insects. The leaf of the Cornelian cherry is egg-shaped and pointed. It appears green in summer. In autumn the foliage takes on a yellowish or red-orange color. The cornel cherry opens its small, yellow flowers in late February and early March.
Soil condition
The Cornelian cherry enjoys dry and calcareous slopes. In such locations, Cornus mas is not exposed to competition from taller trees. However, locations with waterlogging should be avoided as a matter of urgency. A nutrient-rich and well-drained soil is also preferred by the Cornelian cherry. It grows in sparse forests, on the edges of forests and in alluvial forests outside the floodplain.
Provenance
Cornus mas can be found especially in the more southern regions of Europe. This is due to the corresponding climatic conditions. It can also be found in Asia Minor. There is also a distribution limit at the level of southern Belgium and Luxembourg. The Cornelian cherry is usually not found north of this line. Wild populations occur particularly in western and southwestern Germany.
Uses
The fruits of the Cornelian cherry are suitable for human consumption. It can also be used as a medicine, wine or liqueur.