Bentham's Cornel Cornus capitata

Names

• Family

  Cornaceae.

• Synonyms

  Bentham's Cornel, Evergreen Dogwood, Himalayan Strawberry Tree, Himalayan Flowering Dogwood.

• Common names

  Benthamia capitata, Benthamidia capitata, Dendrobenthamia capitata, Dendrobenthamia hongkongensis.

Toxicity

• To humans

  The Himalayan strawberry tree is not commonly known for being toxic to humans. There is limited information on its toxicity, as it is not typically considered a hazardous plant. Thus, if there is any potential toxicity, it likely does not cause severe or widespread issues. However, as with any plant, individual allergic reactions or sensitivities can occur, and ingesting unknown plants or plant parts is generally discouraged. If a person experiences adverse effects after consuming any part of the Himalayan strawberry tree, they should seek medical advice.

• To pets

  The Himalayan strawberry tree is not widely recognized as toxic to pets. There is a lack of substantial evidence regarding its toxicity in animals such as dogs and cats. If a pet ingests part of the Himalayan strawberry tree and displays signs of illness, contact a veterinarian. Symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or unusual behavior could be indicative of an adverse reaction and should be evaluated by a professional.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Evergreen

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  Yellow

• Height

  20 feet (6 meters)

• Spread

  15 feet (4.5 meters)

• Plant type

  Tree

• Hardiness zones

  8

• Native area

  Himalayas

General Benefits

• Ornamental Value: This plant, also known as the Himalayan Strawberry Tree, has an attractive appearance with large, showy, cream-colored to yellow bracts that resemble flowers, providing aesthetic value to gardens and landscapes.
• Wildlife Attraction: The fleshy fruit attracts birds and other wildlife, which can help promote biodiversity and contribute to a healthy ecosystem.
• Shade Provision: Cornus capitata can grow into a small to medium-sized tree that can provide shade in gardens, parks, and urban environments.
• Windbreak: It can serve as a windbreak, protecting other plants and reducing soil erosion when planted in rows or groups.
• Drought Tolerance: Once established, the Himalayan Strawberry Tree can tolerate periods of dryness, making it suitable for water-conscious gardens or regions with less rainfall.
• Screening Plant: Its dense foliage allows it to act as a natural screen, providing privacy and reducing noise in landscaped areas.

Medical Properties

• Antioxidant: Cornus capitata is believed to have antioxidant properties.
• Antimicrobial: Elements of the plant may exhibit antimicrobial activity against certain pathogens.
• Anti-inflammatory: It may contain compounds that help reduce inflammation.
• Astringent: The bark or leaves might be used for their astringent qualities.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Cornus capitata leaves can be used as a natural dye source for fabrics, providing a range of colors from the tannins present in the leaves.
• The fruit of Cornus capitata, though not particularly tasty, can be used to make a rudimentary type of wine through fermentation processes.
• The evergreen foliage of Cornus capitata is sometimes used in floral arrangements, especially around the Christmas season for its bright, festive appearance.
• Wood from the Himalayan Strawberry Tree can be utilized in small woodworking projects, including carving and turning to create decorative items.
• The dense canopy of Cornus capitata can be strategically planted to provide shade in gardens and reduce cooling costs in nearby buildings.
• The fibrous bark from the tree may be used in the creation of natural ropes or cordage in a survival or traditional craft context.
• When planted in groups, Cornus capitata can act as a windbreak, helping to protect more sensitive plants and reducing soil erosion.
• The habit of the tree makes it suitable for bonsai, enabling enthusiasts to manipulate its form for artistic expression in miniature landscaping.
• In educational settings, Cornus capitata can be used to demonstrate plant propagation techniques, such as air layering or stem cuttings, due to its moderate growth rate.
• The nectar and pollen of their flowers can serve to attract pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and birds, enhancing biodiversity in gardens and landscapes.

Feng Shui

The Himalayan Dogwood is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Himalayan Dogwood is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Love and Affection: Cornus capitata, commonly known as Himalayan Strawberry Tree, is often associated with love and affection due to its heart-shaped leaves, symbolizing the giving or receiving of love.
• Resilience and Strength: This plant's ability to grow in various conditions and withstand different climates signifies resilience and the strength to endure hardships.
• Renewal: The Himalayan Strawberry Tree blooms in spring, making it a symbol of renewal and rebirth, signifying new beginnings and fresh starts.
• Purity and Innocence: The white to pale yellow flowers of Cornus capitata represent purity and innocence, reflecting untainted beauty and a sense of serenity.