Cornus suecica aka Skrubbr (Norwegian)

Cornus suecica, or dwarf cornel, is in the dogwood family, Cornaceae. It grows in subarctic lands and northern temperate zones. Its range spans northern Europe, northern Asia, and North America. This includes Britain and Ireland. It also includes Greenland, Japan, and Alaska. In the wild, it grows on moors and heaths. Heather and bilberries often grow above it. It has another scientific name: Chamaepericlymenum suecicum.

This small plant spreads to form dense growth. It is deciduous, which means it sheds its leaves. The RHS calls it a dwarf shrub. Garden plants grow about 0.3–1.6 feet (0.1–0.5 metres) tall. Their spread falls within the same range. Plants may take 10–20 years to reach full size. The oval leaves stay dark green through the growing season. They turn red and purple, then fall in autumn. Its low form suits spots beneath trees and shrubs. It also covers the ground along woodland edges.

The RHS notes white flowers from early to midsummer. They have purple stamens, the parts that bear pollen. Clusters of bright red fruit follow the flowers. Birds eat the berries in autumn. Flowers, fruit, and autumn leaves add interest through several seasons. People can eat the fruit raw or cooked. Plants For A Future says it tastes bitter and unpleasant. People often mix it with other berries. The fruit has plenty of pectin, too. That source notes its past use to boost appetite. This use does not prove a health benefit. The source lists no known hazards for this species.

Choose rich soil with plenty of humus that drains well. Keep it moist, but do not let it get waterlogged. The plant suits acid or neutral soil. The RHS lists clay, loam, sand, and chalk as soil types. Plants can grow in full sun or partial shade. Suggested garden sites include shade and peaty soil. The RHS gives it a UK hardiness rating of H6. This covers winter lows near −4 to 5°F (−20 to −15°C). It can grow in sheltered or exposed spots.

Use dwarf cornel as ground cover or in flower beds. It suits informal gardens and planting in woods, too. The RHS lists it for gardens that need little care. Few pests trouble it, but horse chestnut scale may occur. The disease Cornus anthracnose may cause problems, too. To grow new plants, use semi-hardwood cuttings, hardwood cuttings, or grafting. Plants For A Future does not flag it as weedy.