Red osier dogwood (Cornus sericea) is a medium-sized, deciduous shrub native to much of the Northern and Western United States (USDA hardiness zones 2-7). These shrubs standout in the winter landscape by their colorful stems. Cut branches are an added plus for indoor arrangements.
In recent years the yellow-twig form (C. sericea 'Flaviramea') has gained in popularity. Osier dogwoods grow well in very large containers, but can rapidly outgrow their pot space in 2-3 years.
In recent years the yellow-twig form (C. sericea 'Flaviramea') has gained in popularity. Osier dogwoods grow well in very large containers, but can rapidly outgrow their pot space in 2-3 years.
Leaves are oblong-lanceolate (up to 5 inches long), oppositely arranged with 5-7 pairs of lateral veins, and entire margins. Species may grow up to 10 feet tall and spread voraciously by underground stolons to form large clumps. One landscape idea is to mix red and yellow–twig dogwoods together for an added color blast.
These stoloniferous dogwoods bloom in mid-spring (in Tennessee and Virginia). The terminal creamy white (cyme) flowers measure 1.5 to 2.0 inches across and white berries follow in late summer.
In northern areas, plant osier dogwoods in full sun (Zones 2-6) and in partial shade (Zone 7). Shrubs handle average soils. Fertilize in early spring before buds break and irrigate during long dry summer spells. Shrubs establish quickly and become drought tolerant after one year.
Stoloniferous dogwoods are disease and insect resistant and deer generally overlook them. Utilize them in perennial or shrub borders, masses and groupings, container gardens and winter gardens.
Stoloniferous dogwoods are disease and insect resistant and deer generally overlook them. Utilize them in perennial or shrub borders, masses and groupings, container gardens and winter gardens.
Pruning tip: cut 2-3 year old shoots back to the ground immediately after spring flowering to promote colorful juvenile shoots.
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