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Cornus canadensis

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Cornus canadensis

Common Name: Bunchberry

Cornus canadensis, commonly known as Bunchberry, is a low-growing, herbaceous perennial that typically reaches 4 to 8 inches in height. It features whorls of glossy, green leaves and produces small, white flowers surrounded by showy white bracts in late spring, followed by clusters of red berries. This species is typically found in cool, moist, acidic soils in forests and bogs. It spreads by rhizomes making dense colonies which are hard to miss! Bunchberry is suitable for woodland gardens, shaded groundcovers, and naturalized areas with acidic soils.

Characteristics

Type	Forb
Sun	Partial Sun, Shade
Soil	Clay, Loam, Sand/Gravel, Peat
Moisture	Mesic, Wet
Average Max Height (inches)	12
Suggested Plant Spacing (inches)	12
Bloom month(s)	May, June, July
Bloom Color or Type	White
Dominance	Medium

Range Maps

Sowing Information

For most homeowners, the recommended method is to hand-broadcast seed at a minimum rate of 16–64 PLS (Pure Live Seed) ounces per acre. To ensure even coverage, broadcast the seed in perpendicular passes across the site. Grass seed should be broadcast first and lightly raked into the soil. Afterward, apply a light mulch layer using clean, seed-free straw or, preferably, our native Little Bluestem straw, available at our retail garden centers. Once mulching is complete, broadcast native wildflower seed over the area without raking it in. A good rainfall or thorough watering will provide sufficient soil contact for successful germination.

Planting Information

Dig a hole in your planting site slightly larger than the plant’s root system. When placing the plant into the hole, ensure that the soil line remains consistent with its original level in the pot. Fill in around the roots with the excavated soil, gently firming it to eliminate air pockets. Water the plant thoroughly the same day to promote successful establishment.

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