Red barked dogwood 'Spaethii' (Cornus alba 'Spaethii')

Red barked dogwood 'Spaethii'

Also known as: Tatarian dogwood 'Spaethii', Siberian dogwood 'Spaethii'

Red barked dogwood 'Spaethii', a cultivar of the Tartarian dogwood, is a medium-sized deciduous shrub with stems that turn bright red in winter. The leaves are dark green with bold yellow margins. Gardeners favor this cultivar as an ornamental plant. It is also resistant to browsing and attracts butterflies.

Scientific classification

Dogwoods, hydrangeas, and allies

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Summer, Fall

Harvest Time

4 m

Plant Height

4 m

Spread

Green, Blue, Yellow, White

Leaf Color

6 cm

Flower Size

White, Blue

Fruit Color

White

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Care Guide for Red barked dogwood 'Spaethii'

Twice per week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Red barked dogwood 'Spaethii' thrives in humid environments, preferring consistent moisture but adaptable to occasional dryness. Water biweekly to align with its moderate drought tolerance. Benefiting from rainwater, red barked dogwood 'Spaethii' flourishes during the growing season, enjoying the optimal pH and nutrients it provides.

Fertilize: For red barked dogwood 'Spaethii', use balanced-nutrition fertilizers in spring, switching to high-nitrogen if foliage is poor. Fertilize semi-annually, reducing in fall and pausing in winter. Follow label rates to protect roots, dilute appropriately, and distribute evenly for healthy growth and vibrant displays.

Pruning: Red barked dogwood 'Spaethii' features striking red bark and benefits from annual pruning in early spring. Trim damaged stems and thin older branches to promote new growth. Cut back one-third of the oldest stems for rejuvenation, ensuring good air circulation to prevent disease and enhance visual appeal.

Propagation: Red barked dogwood 'Spaethii' is propagated via cuttings from healthy, semi-hardwood stems. Use rooting hormone and optimal humidity and temperature for best results. After rooting, acclimatize young red barked dogwood 'Spaethii' plants before planting them in their final location.

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