Cornus quinquenervis

Cornus quinquenervis is a deciduous shrub in the dogwood family, Cornaceae. It comes from central and southern China, in temperate regions. Its range spans several provinces, including Sichuan, Yunnan, Hubei, and Hunan. It grows on hillsides and in mountain woods. It also grows in thickets beside streams. Wild plants occur from sea level to about 8,200 feet [2,500 metres].

The shrub reaches about 10 feet [3 metres] in height. It loses its leaves for winter. Plants For A Future records flowers from July to August. Each flower has both male and female organs. Insects pollinate the flowers, and seeds ripen from October to November. The cited botanical account describes small, round, black fruit. This differs from one garden observation discussed in the same source.

Plants For A Future describes this shrub as easy to grow. It accepts sandy soil, loam, and heavy clay. Soil with good or moderate fertility suits it. Its soil range extends from acid ground to shallow chalk. It grows in full sun or light shade and prefers moist soil. These needs suit woodland edges and spots with dappled shade. The source gives UK zone 5, not an RHS hardiness rating.

The source lists fruit as edible, with a low food-use rating. Yet its tasting report needs care because the plant's identity was uncertain. A Kew specimen bore red fruit, unlike the described black fruit. The observer tasted unripe fruit and found it somewhat astringent. That report does not firmly establish this species' taste or food value. Plants For A Future lists no known hazards or medicinal uses. It also lists no other uses and flags no weed potential. The lack of reported hazards does not prove safety.

Seed offers a way to raise new plants. Sow fresh seed in a cold frame or outdoor seedbed. First remove the fruit flesh, which can hinder germination. Stored seed needs three to four months of cold treatment. A warm period before cold treatment may also help. Stored seed can take at least 18 months to sprout. Move seedlings into pots once they are large enough to handle. Keep these young plants in a greenhouse through their first winter.