Cornus sericea - Red Twig Dogwood

Morphology/Growth Habits: This red twig dogwood is a deciduous shrub native to most of North America and naturally occurring in wetland areas. It spreads upright, with deep red branches and delicate white flowers in the late spring/early summer months. Its red branches make it a particularly outstanding plant in the winter months, providing a bright splash of color in the cold. White flowers form white berries in the fall months, attracting birds. Spreads very competitively through rhizomes.

Height: 6-9 ft

Light: Full Sun-Part Shade

Moisture: Medium-Wet

Bloom color: White

Bloom time: May-June

Habitat/Best Environments: This shrub is typically found in wetland margins and riparian areas. It can tolerate a variety of soil conditions, but prefers richness and moisture. Often used in bank erosion protection/restoration projects.

Ecological relationships: This shrub is important to many different species! It is a larval host for many butterflies, including the Spring Azure butterfly, making it perfect for pollinator gardens. New shoots are an important food source for many mammals, and its fruits and seeds are enjoyed by many animals including birds in later months. 

*Various parts of Red-Twig Dogwood are used in many Indigenous cultures for sustenance, medicinal, and ceremonial purposes. 

*Please soil test and do proper research before growing a plant for human consumption.

Fun facts: ‘Sericea’ is Latin for ‘silky’ and refers to the fine hairs found on the new stems/buds of the plant.