Cornus hemsleyi
Cornus hemsleyi
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Pl. 958C — Cornus hemsleyi
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IOverview
Overview
Cornus hemsleyi, commonly known as Hemsley's dogwood, is a deciduous shrub native to the mountainous regions of China North-Central, South-Central, Qinghai, and Tibet. This plant thrives in moist environments with light soil types—ranging from sandy to heavy clay—and prefers full sun or partial shade. It can grow up to 4 meters tall and is valued for its edible fruits, which are often used in local cuisine. The distinctive features of C. hemsleyi include its adaptability to various soil conditions and its ornamental value, making it a notable addition to gardens and landscapes in suitable climates.
Quick answers
What is Cornus hemsleyi?
Cornus hemsleyi, commonly known as Hemsley's dogwood, is a deciduous shrub native to the mountainous regions of China North-Central, South-Central, Qinghai, and Tibet. This plant thrives in moist environments with light soil types—ranging from sandy to heavy clay—and prefers full sun or partial shade.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Cornus hemsleyi thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist, well-drained soils that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in temperate regions but may require protection from harsh winds. This shrub grows up to 4 meters tall and is native to China's north-central and south-central regions as well as parts of Qinghai and Tibet. For successful cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently moist while providing ample sunlight for optimal growth.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Mature size
4.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Cornus hemsleyi for the first time
8steps
Start with Cornus hemsleyi by planting it in a sunny spot and providing basic care.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Cornus hemsleyi plant, well-draining soil, and a watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or early fall when the weather is cooler.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is light (sandy), medium, or heavy with good drainage. Amend as needed.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants directly into the garden or a large pot filled with well-draining soil.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for signs of stress.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun to partial shade, and water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Prune lightly in late winter.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to maintain shape and remove any dead or damaged branches.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil, neglecting winter protection in colder regions, not providing enough sunlight, and using the wrong fertilizer.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible uses: Oil
Other uses:oilSoapTannin
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
4 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
4 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 4 native
Asia1 region
native (1)China
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 958c4c77-63fc-4711-8fd9-274cbd260b9f
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