The Dawes Arboretum

Common name: yellowleaf cornelian-cherry dogwood

Family: Cornaceae (dogwood family)

Synonym: Cornus mas 'Foliis Aureis'

Distribution: Species native to Europe and w. Asia

Hardiness: USDA Zone 3

Life form: Deciduous shrub/Subshrub

Comments: This multi-stemmed deciduous shrub or small tree grows to around 20' tall with a vase-shaped habit. Often planted in Europe but seldom seen in American gardens, its 2-4" long leaves unfold to an attractive golden-yellow. With the oncoming summer heat, the foliage becomes a more light green color. Flowers, as with the species, occur very early (March) in yellow clusters supported on short stalks. Fruit is dark red, egg shaped, 5/8" wide.