Cornelian Cherry (cornus mas)

Cornelian cherries are small trees, about the size of a crab apple. They are not cherries, but actually members of the dogwood family. They are very tough plants that produce copious amounts of bright red edible berries. The fruits need to be fully ripe to be enjoyed, otherwise they are quite astringent.

Cornelian cherries are widely planted in ornamental landscapes because of how attractive their leaves are, the profusion of yellow flowers in early spring, and the sheer brilliance of the colorful fruits.