Trees That Attract Birds Bees Butterflies Post 3

The next six flowering trees that attract birds, bees or butterflies, are listed according to their bloom time.  You will find many features that will excite you.

Cornelian cherry  (Cornus mas)

The Cornelian cherry is one of the earliest blooming woody plants.  It makes a deciduous shrub or small tree, with a graceful rounded form, 15 to 20 feet tall.  In early spring, the naked branches are dotted with clusters of fluffy yellow flowers , which are followed in late summer by bright red edible fruits.  The “cherries” are relished by songbirds and other wildlife. While too tart to eat raw by humans, the cherries make

delicious preserves.  In the fall, the dark green foliage turns a rich burgundy purple, and the beautifully mottled exfoliating bark of mature specimens contributes o its four seasons of garden interest.  Cornelian cherry grows in sun or shade, is tolerant of most conditions, and is untroubled by pests or disease.  It is easy care in full sun to moist shade.  It is particularly effective when trained as a multitrunked small tree and underplanted with hellebores, primroses, early bulb and other early spring border beauties, such as daffodils.  C. mas  “Variegata” has white-margined foliage; “Aurea” is strongly yellow; and with gold-margined leaves, the cultivar “Elegantissima” is a stunning addition to the garden.  Hardy to Zone 4 to 7.