The cornelian cherry is not yet widespread as a wild fruit tree, but is often found in parks. Richly covered in yellow flowers in spring, it presents its dark red fruits in late summer and here and there a peep and chirp can be heard
Why is the cornelian cherry valuable for birds?
The cornelian cherry not only offers birds food through its fruits, but also protection and nesting opportunities through its dense growth. Bird species such as blackbirds, nuthatches and jays in particular like to eat cornelian cherries and use them for nesting.
Do birds eat cornelian cherries?
Not all bird species, but some,like to eatthe fruits of the cornelian cherry. The fruits, which are reminiscent of elongated cherries and are also known as Dirndln and Herlitzen, represent a tasty and he althy source of food for the birds.
Do birds nest in the cornelian cherry tree?
Birds nestoften in the cornelian cherry, as it is richly branched and dense, especially when grown as a hedge. You can often discover small bird nests within the branches of the cornelian cherry, usually blackbirds, robins or finches. There they receive a lot of protection for their offspring. The birds also use the cornelian cherry to hide and rest.
Which birds like the fruits of cornelian cherries?
There arenumerous birds that feast on the fruits of the cornelian cherry. These include starlings, blackbirds, nuthatches, bullfinches and jays. In total there are said to be more than 15 species of birds that like to get a snack from this plant.
Which cornelian cherries are particularly suitable for birds?
A popular and often encountered cornelian cherry variety is the'Jolico', which produces an abundance of fruit in July and is therefore perfect as a bird food plant. But other varieties of Cornus mas, which produce countless flowers in spring and are then abundantly decorated with fruit in summer, are also suitable for birds. These include 'Schönbrunner Gourmet Dirndl', 'Kasanlaker' and 'Golden Glory'.
What is important for birds when planting a cornelian cherry?
If you have the opportunity and the space, you should not plant a single cornelian cherry in the garden, but rather a largerhedgemade up ofseveral bird food and bird protection trees. Well-suited planting partners for the cornelian cherry include elderberry, amelanchier, dogwood and wild rose. Pay attention to the correct planting distance!
Why is it worth preserving cornelian cherries for birds?
If you want to do something good for the birds in the barrenwinter, you can harvest a few of the ripe cornelian cherries and dry or freeze them at home. In winter, put the fruits in the birdhouse together with other bird food (€25.00 on Amazon) or hang them in small nets on branches in the forest or park.
Tip
Cut the cornelian cherry for a dense bird protection tree
So that the cornelian cherry grows with dense branches so that birds can hide in it and nest comfortably, you should prune the plant regularly.
