Cornus Mas Pioneer

Pioneer Cornelian Cherry

Botanical name: Cornus mas ‘Pioneer’

Overview
A vigorous selection of Cornelian cherry dogwood valued for its reliable early-spring display of bright yellow flowers and strong growth habit. Blooms appear before leaf-out, providing one of the earliest landscape color shows. Glossy green foliage follows, turning yellow to reddish tones in fall, while abundant red fruits develop in late summer. ‘Pioneer’ is appreciated for its productivity, durability, and consistent performance.

Size



Width: 15–20 ft



Height: 20–25 ft



Hardiness



USDA Zones: 4a–8b



Light



Full sun to partial shade



Best flowering and fruiting occur in full sun



Soil



Well-drained soils; adaptable to clay, loam, or sandy soils



Tolerates slightly alkaline to slightly acidic pH



Avoid poorly drained sites



Attracts



Pollinators (early flowers)



Birds (fruit)



Wildlife (food source)



Suitable Conditions



Performs well in cold to moderate climates



Highly adaptable and tolerant of urban conditions



Allow space for upright branching and mature spread



Notes



Shape: Upright oval to rounded canopy



Selected for strong growth and dependable fruiting



Fruit edible fresh or used for preserves and syrups



Excellent specimen, hedge, or small shade tree



Minimal pruning required; prune only for structure or shaping

Plant type

Flowering Ornamental Tree

Height

20-25'

Width

15-20'

Hardiness zones

4–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Spring

Flower color

Yellow

Leaf color

Green

Soil

Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Specimen

Shape

Oval/Rounded, Upright

Fruit

Yes

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No