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IIIFolio · plant profile№ 2F2Bedible
Data provenancePermapeopleTreflePFAFPOWOreviewed 19 Oct 2026methodology → read

Bunchberry

Cornus x unalaschkensis
Educational content — not medical, botanical, or professional advice. Plant identification, safety, and edibility depend on local conditions, cultivars, and correct identification. Consult a qualified botanist or forager before consuming or handling wild specimens. How we source & review →
edibleperennialculinaryedibleedible fruitnative amperennial
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Cornus x unalaschkensis (Bunchberry) — botanical photograph
Pl. 2F2B — Cornus x unalaschkensis
Cornus x unalaschkensisCornus x unalaschkensisCornus x unalaschkensisCornus x unalaschkensisCornus x unalaschkensisCornus x unalaschkensisCornus x unalaschkensisCornus x unalaschkensisCornus x unalaschkensisCornus x unalaschkensisCornus x unalaschkensisCornus x unalaschkensisCornus x unalaschkensisCornus x unalaschkensis
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Overview

Bunchberry, scientifically known as Cornus x unalaschkensis, is a low-growing perennial that thrives in moist environments with light to partial sun. Native to regions including Alaska, Alberta, the Aleutian Islands, British Columbia, California, Idaho, Khabarovsk, Oregon, and Washington, this plant is valued for its edible fruit. The bunchberry features distinctive white flowers followed by bright red berries, making it a popular ornamental choice in gardens. Its preference for light to medium soil types and its ability to grow up to 0.2 meters make it adaptable in various landscapes. While primarily appreciated for its fruit, bunchberry is also useful as a ground cover and provides pectin for culinary applications. Its native range and hardiness in temperate regions make it a valuable addition to gardens and natural landscapes.

Quick answers

What is Bunchberry?

Bunchberry, scientifically known as Cornus x unalaschkensis, is a low-growing perennial that thrives in moist environments with light to partial sun.

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
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Cultivation

Bunchberry thrives in partial sun to partial shade and requires moist, well-drained soil that is light (sandy) to medium. It is a perennial that grows to about 0.2 meters tall and is hardy in temperate regions. For propagation, bunchberry can be grown from seeds or divided from established plants. The fruit is edible and can be enjoyed fresh or used in various culinary applications.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
0.2 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Bunchberry for the first time

8steps

Start with Bunchberry as a simple, low-maintenance perennial for your garden.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    A small Bunchberry plant or seeds, potting soil, and a container if planting in one.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant Bunchberry in early spring or late fall when the weather is cooler.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Use light, well-draining soil. Ensure containers have drainage holes.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Transplant young plants or sow seeds directly into the ground in early spring.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Keep the soil moist and provide partial shade to help the plant establish itself.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Provide light to partial sun exposure.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not providing enough shade, neglecting to prune.

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Edible & utility

Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: Pectin
Other uses:PectinGround cover
Contextrange · companions · related
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Distribution

10 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across1 continent· 10 native
Americas1 region
native (1)United States
Broader regions
native:Alberta, Aleutian Is., British Columbia, California, Idaho, Khabarovsk, Oregon, Washington, Yukon
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Specimen gallery

1 image
Cornus x unalaschkensis (Bunchberry) — botanical photograph
Bunchberry (Cornus x unalaschkensis)
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