Cornus sericea, commonly known as Red Osier Dogwood, is a native deciduous shrub valued for its vivid red stems, adaptability, and strong wildlife benefits. This multi-stemmed shrub typically grows 6 to 9 feet tall and wide, forming dense thickets that provide year-round structure and seasonal interest in naturalistic and ecological landscapes.

In late spring, flat clusters of creamy white flowers bloom and attract a variety of pollinators. These are followed in summer by white berries that are readily used by birds. As temperatures cool, the green foliage often takes on red to purple tones before dropping to reveal the plant’s signature bright red stems, which provide striking winter color.

Red Osier Dogwood thrives in full sun to part shade and is highly adaptable to a wide range of soil conditions, including clay, sand, and seasonally wet sites. Its tolerance for moisture makes it especially effective in rain gardens, wetlands, and along streambanks, where it also helps stabilize soil.

Why choose Red Osier Dogwood

Four-season interest: Flowers, berries, fall color, and vivid winter stems
Wildlife value: Supports pollinators and provides food for birds
Highly adaptable: Performs well in wet soils and challenging conditions

Cultivating tips

Sun exposure: Full sun to part shade
Soil needs: Prefers moist soils; tolerates clay, sand, and periodic flooding
Maintenance: Low—prune older stems in late winter to encourage bright new growth

Designs for your garden

Rain gardens and wetlands: Excellent for managing moisture and runoff
Winter interest plantings: Red stems add bold color in dormant landscapes
Native and wildlife gardens: Forms dense habitat and visual structure

Ecological benefits

Native shrub: Strengthens regional biodiversity
Pollinator support: Flowers provide nectar for native insects
Bird habitat: Berries offer an important seasonal food source

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