How to identify Red osier dogwood (Cornus sericea)
Red osier dogwood, also known as Creek dogwood, Red-rood
Red osier dogwood is a deciduous shrub reaching heights and widths of approximately 6 to 9 feet (1.8 to 2.7 meters). It is distinguished by its vibrant red stems and twigs, especially noticeable in winter. Come mid to late spring, it boasts dense clusters of flat-topped, creamy-white flowers. By late summer and early fall, it produces bluish-tinged white berries. The foliage turns a reddish-purple in autumn, adding to its seasonal appeal.
Lifespan: Perennial
Plant Type: Shrub
Leaf Type: Deciduous
Vibrant red stems and twigs stand out in winter, reaching heights of 6-9 feet (1.8-2.7 meters).
Flat-topped, creamy-white flowers form dense clusters in mid to late spring.
Distinct white berries with a bluish tinge persist into late summer and early fall.
Leaves transition from green to orange, red, and purple in fall, measuring 2-5 inches (5-13 cm).
Slender, upright stems with bright red to dark blood-red color create a striking visual contrast.
The leaves of red osier dogwood are characterized by their opposite arrangement and medium to dark green color. They are ovate to lanceolate in shape, measuring between 2 to 5 inches (5 to 13 cm) in length. The veins exhibit a reticulate pattern, and the leaf margins are entire. During the fall, the leaves transition through a striking color palette from orange to red to purple, making them easily identifiable.
The flowers of red osier dogwood are characterized by their dull white color, arranged in flat-topped cymes. Each small flower measures around 0.2 inches (5 mm) in diameter. They possess a delicate and intricate arrangement of four petals, contributing to a somewhat star-like appearance. Blooming occurs in early summer, emitting a faint, sweet scent that attracts pollinators. These blooms are short-lived but notable for their distinct and identifying features, key for enthusiasts appreciating floral intricacy.
The stems of red osier dogwood are slender and upright, ranging in color from bright red to dark blood-red. They exhibit a horizontal branching pattern, adding distinctive structure. The best color is found on young, vigorous stems, which benefit from severe pruning in early spring to maintain vibrancy. Texturally, the stems are smooth, and their diameter generally remains thin, which emphasizes the vibrant red color prominently in contrast to the winter landscape.
The fruit of red osier dogwood presents as small, round drupes, measuring about 0.3 to 0.4 inches (8 to 10 mm) in diameter. These berries display a unique white coloration with a subtle blue tinge. When ripe, they exhibit a waxy, glossy outer surface, contributing to their ornamental appeal. The fleshy, berry-like fruits are borne in clusters and persist into late winter, providing a stark contrast against the landscape and attracting avian fauna.
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Scientific Classification of Red osier dogwood
