Cornelian Cherry

Found mostly in temperate regions of the northern hemisphere, this is a genus of some 45 species of trees, shrubs, subshrubs, and perennials. Many dogwoods are ornamental and easily grown in mixed borders, or as specimen plants, for their flowers, fruits, often interesting bark, and good autumn color. The name Cornus comes from the Latin cornu, "horn", because the wood of some species is extremely hard, resembling animal horn. Cornus officinalis was first described in Chinese medicine c.CE200. Other speceis with therapeutic properties are: C. florida (American boxwood, flowering dogwood), used as a tonic for nervous exhaustion and tension headaches; C. mas (cornelian cherry) and C. sanguinea (common dogwood), which are both astringent fever remedies; and C. stolonifera syn. C. sericea (American red osier), a traditional remedy for indigestion, diarrhea, and vomiting.

Deciduous large, spreading shrub or small tree with peeling bark and ovate to elliptic leaves to 12cm (15in) long, turning red-purple in autumn. Clusters of tiny yellow flowers appear along the bare branches in late winter, followed by edible, bright red fruits, about 1cm (3/8in) across.

Common Name:	Cornelian Cherry
Other Names:	Japanese cornel
Botanical Name:	Cornus officinalis
Genus:	Cornus
Family:	Cornaceae
Native Location:	China, Japan, Korea
Cultivation:	Well-drained soil in sun or partial shade.
Propagation:	By seed in autumn, or stratified and sown in spring; by greenwood cuttings in summer.
Harvest:	Fruits are collected when ripe and dried for use in decoctions.
Height:	5-10m (15-30ft)
Width:	5-10m (15-30ft)
Hardiness:	Z4-8
Parts Used:	Fruits (shan zhu yu)
Properties:	A sour, astringent, diuretic herb that acts mainly as an energy tonic for the liver and kidneys. It also checks bleeding, lowers blood pressure, and controls bacterial and fungal infections.
Medicinal Uses:	Internally to reduce excessive secretions and discharge (such as profuse perspiration, frequent urination, or heavy menstruation), and for conditions associated with weak kidney and liver energy (such as urinary dysfunction and impotence). Often combined with Rehmannia glutinosa (See, Chinese Foxglove) to suppress excretion of fluids.
Warning:	Skin allergen
Bibliography:	Encyclopedia of herbs by Deni Brown Copyright © 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited. pg 180-181