Cornelian Cherry (Cornus mas)
On March 31, 1774, Jefferson recorded in his garden diary planting four "Ciriege Corniole" or Cornelian Cherries, and 16 other varieties of fruit trees and vegetables. The Cornelian Cherry is a native to southern Europe and western Asia, and has been cultivated since ancient times for the fruit it produces. Excellent for preserves and syrup, the fruit of this plant can be harvested in early summer.
For more information & the possible availability
Contact The Tho Jefferson Center for Historic Plants or The Shop at Monticello
17C Europeans landing on America's East Coast coped with new weather patterns & geography by creating spaces to meet basic needs for shelter, food, & safety. As time passed, most still grew food plants; but with expanding families & importation of indentured servants & slaves, farm fields often became export enterprises. In the 18-19C, many gentry transformed their formal gardens into art to project a desired image to others - their wealth, power, refinement, & beliefs.