Cornus racemosa, commonly known as Gray Dogwood, is a native deciduous shrub valued for its toughness, multi-season interest, and exceptional wildlife support. This multi-stemmed shrub typically grows 10 to 15 feet tall and wide, forming a dense, spreading habit that works especially well in naturalized landscapes, hedgerows, and restoration plantings.

In late spring to early summer, clusters of small white flowers appear, attracting a variety of pollinators. These are followed in late summer by distinctive white berries held on bright red stems, creating strong visual contrast into fall. Gray-green foliage and smooth gray bark add to the shrub’s understated but attractive presence throughout the growing season.

Gray Dogwood is highly adaptable, growing well in full sun to part shade and tolerating a wide range of soil conditions, from dry to moderately moist. Its resilience and low maintenance needs make it a dependable choice for challenging sites where ecological function is a priority.

Why choose Gray Dogwood

Multi-season interest: Flowers, red stems, and white berries provide lasting appeal
Wildlife value: Supports birds, pollinators, and small mammals
Tough native shrub: Performs well in poor or variable conditions

Cultivating tips

Sun exposure: Full sun to part shade
Soil needs: Adaptable to dry or moist, well-drained soils
Maintenance: Low—prune to shape or rejuvenate by cutting back in early spring

Designs for your garden

Wildlife gardens: Provides food and cover for birds
Naturalized plantings: Ideal for hedgerows, buffers, and restoration sites
Shrub borders: Blends well with other native shrubs

Ecological benefits

Native shrub: Supports regional biodiversity
Bird habitat: White berries are an important late-season food source
Erosion control: Helps stabilize slopes and disturbed soils

Plant appearance may vary by season and growing conditions. All plants ship healthy with established root systems.