Cornelian Cherry

Description

Cornelian Cherry (Cornus mas) belongs to the Cornaceae family and is native to Europe. It thrives in Mixed woods, Parks, Hills, Valleys environments across regions including Italy, France, Germany, Balkans.

Botanically, Cornelian Cherry is red berries jams syrups. Roasted seeds coffee. Forgotten fruit.. It is also known locally as Corne.

The edible parts include Fruits, Seeds. With an edibility rating of 7/10, it ranks as a good wild food source. Harvesting is best done during August and July.

Nutritionally, Cornelian Cherry stands out for its Vitamin C (25.0mg, 28% DV), Iron (1.0mg, 6% DV) and Calcium (50.0mg, 4% DV). It also provides 1.2g protein and 2.5g dietary fiber per 100g serving.

In the kitchen, Cornelian Cherry offers a Sweet tangy flavor profile. Raw jam syrup roasted seeds coffee. Common culinary applications include jam, syrup, seed coffee. Popular preparations include Cornelian cherry jam, Cornelian cherry syrup, Toasted seed snack, Seed flour bread.

For storage, jam 12mo Fresh 5d.

Safety note: No toxicity. Antinutrient content is no antinutrients. Safe lookalike species include Lingonberry Wild cherry. Always verify identification with at least three independent botanical sources before consumption.

Foragers should collect cornelian cherry during Jul and Aug. Choose young, vibrant parts for optimal flavor and nutrition. Avoid specimens near polluted areas, roadsides, or treated agricultural land.

Field identification relies on recognizing the plant in its natural habitat — typically mixed woods, parks, hills, valleys. Flowers, leaf arrangement, and growth habit provide the most reliable identification markers. Always consult at least two independent botanical sources.

Traditional Europe communities have long valued cornelian cherry as a seasonal wild food. Its reliable growth and nutritional density made it a valuable resource during lean periods and food scarcity.

In contemporary cuisine, cornelian cherry pairs excellently with olive oil, garlic, and citrus. It complements wild herbs, foraged mushrooms, and hearty grains. Experiment with both raw preparations and slow-cooked dishes to appreciate its full range.

Edibility

Harvest Calendar

Nutrition (per 100g)

Culinary Uses

jam, syrup, seed coffee

Storage

Jam 12mo Fresh 5d

Recipes

• Cornelian cherry jam
• Cornelian cherry syrup
• Toasted seed snack
• Seed flour bread
• Seed dressing granola
• Wild winter pesto made from Cornelian Cherry
• Traditional Cornelian Cherry soup
• Cornelian Cherry and potato frittata

Where It Grows