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Dwarf cornel

 

 

In Estonia the Arctic species dwarf cornel only grows on the North Estonian islands, on the shores; it can also be found on Hiiumaa – that is the southern limit of the plant’s distribution area.

 

The shrub has arced branches, close to the ground and easily rooting, so it is an evergreen arctic ground cover plant. On the seashore the undemanding plant has enough humidity, suitable soil and of course also sun although it can grow in half-shade too.

 

The dwarf cornel is so striking with its finger-tip sized red fruits that it is difficult to pass by it. Unknown berries are tempting but cause a subconscious suspicion of „poisonberries“ in finders. The dwarf cornel fruits are not poisonous, but the taste is impossibly insipid – they are so to say not eatable fruits.