Cornus mas 'Jolico' (Cornelian cherry 'Jolico') - fructe mari

Cornus mas 'Jolico' is a cultivar of dogwood from the Cornaceae family, renowned for its large fruits (twice as large as ordinary cultivars), red and sweet-tart taste. This variety is valued for its high productivity, frost resistance, and ornamental appearance, being a popular choice in fruit gardens, orchards, or rustic landscapes. Its fruits are ideal for fresh consumption, jams, juices, or wines, offering nutritional benefits rich in vitamins.

Appearance of leaves and flowers

• Leaves: The leaves are ovate, 5-10 cm long, with entire edges, glossy dark green. They appear in spring and fall late autumn, providing a dense background for the fruits.
• Flowers: The flowers are small, yellow, grouped in umbels, appearing early spring (March-April), before the leaves. They are discreet but attract pollinators such as bees.

Appearance of the fruits

• Fruits: The fruits are small, oval cherries, intense red, 2-3 cm long, with juicy pulp and a sweet-tart taste. They ripen in August-September, rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, ideal for processing or fresh consumption.

Growth characteristics

• Height and width: Reaches 4-6 meters in height and 3-4 meters in width, forming an erect shrub or small tree with arching branches.
• Vigor: Moderate growth, with woody stems and dense development. It is vigorous and long-lived, living up to 100 years.
• Type: Deciduous shrub or small perennial tree.

Growing conditions

• Exposure: Prefers full sun or partial shade for optimal fruiting. Tolerates shade but produces fewer fruits.
• Soil: Grows in fertile, well-drained soils, with slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5-7.0). Tolerates poor or clay soils.
• Watering: Water regularly during dry periods, especially during fruit formation. Tolerant to moderate drought once established.
• Temperature: Hardy in zones 3-8 (down to -35°C), suitable for temperate climates, including Romania.

Care and resistance

• Resistance: Extremely resistant to cold, diseases, and pests. Tolerates moderate drought and urban pollution.
• Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring, once a year, to stimulate growth.
• Pruning: Prune in spring, removing dry or crossed branches to maintain shape. Tolerates severe pruning for rejuvenation.
• Propagation: Propagated by root cuttings or dividing clumps in spring.
• Warning: Fruits are edible but astringent raw; cook them before consumption.

Usage

Cornus mas 'Jolico' is ideal for fruit gardens, borders, or orchards. Its red fruits are excellent for jams, juices, wines, or teas. It pairs well with other fruit shrubs or ornamental plants. Attracts pollinators, contributing to biodiversity.

Origin

Cornus mas is native to Southern Europe and Western Asia. The 'Jolico' cultivar was developed in Germany for its large fruits and resistance.

Pot diameter: 9 cm
Height including pot: approx. 20-30 cm (varies depending on season)

In the cold season, plants are shortened and leafless. Labels and pot shape may vary depending on batch and producer.