Cornus hemsleyi

Cornus hemsleyi, or Hemsley’s dogwood, is a deciduous shrub in the dogwood family, Cornaceae. Its native range runs from China to northern Myanmar. It grows in temperate regions and is not native to Britain or Ireland. In China, records place it across many provinces. Its wild sites include mixed woods, thickets, and stream banks. These habitats lie at heights of about 3,280–13,120 feet [1,000–4,000 metres].

The shrub reaches about 13 feet [4 metres] in height. It sheds its leaves as part of its yearly cycle. Flowers appear in July, and seeds ripen in September. Each flower has both male and female organs. Insects pollinate the flowers. The supplied species account gives no details of flower colour or fruit shape. It also gives no mature width, bark description, or leaf shape. The broader traits of other dogwoods should not define this species.

This is an easy shrub to grow, according to Plants For A Future. It accepts soil with good or moderate fertility. It can grow in sand, loam, or heavy clay. Its soil range extends from acid ground to shallow chalk. Mildly alkaline and neutral soils also suit it. Choose full sun or light shade, with moist soil. A bright woodland edge or a site with dappled shade fits these needs. The supplied evidence gives no hardiness zone or species-specific pest and disease details.

Seed offers one way to raise new plants. Sow fresh seed when ripe, in a cold frame or outdoor seedbed. First remove the flesh, which contains substances that can delay germination. Stored seed needs three to four months of cold treatment. Sow it early in the year after treatment. A warm period before chilling may help, as may scarification. Even then, stored seed can take 18 months or longer to sprout. Pot up seedlings once they are large enough to handle. Give them greenhouse shelter through their first winter.

The seeds yield oil used to make soap. The leaves and bark supply tannin for industrial use. Plants For A Future lists no known food or medicinal use. It also lists no known hazards, but this does not establish food or pet safety. That source does not flag the shrub as a weed risk.