Red osier dogwood (Cornus sericea)

Red osier dogwood

Also known as: Creek dogwood, Red-rood

Red osier dogwood is a thicket-forming shrub with attractive dark red winter stems. This plant produces yellow flowers in early summer and fruit late in the fall. Over ninety-eight species of birds rely on this plant for food or shelter. Native Americans used red osier dogwood branches to weave baskets.

Scientific classification

Species

Red osier dogwood (Cornus sericea)

Dogwoods, hydrangeas, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

Summer

Harvest Time

1.5 m to 4 m

Plant Height

3 m to 5 m

Spread

Green, Yellow

Leaf Color

5 mm to 1 cm

Flower Size

White, Brown, Blue

Fruit Color

White, Cream, Green

Flower Color

Brown, Green, Red

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Red osier dogwood

Attributes of Red osier dogwood

Growth Rate

Red osier dogwood's rapid growth rate is particularly noticeable in Spring and Summer. Its accelerated development during these seasons leads to a swift increase in height and denser leaf production. Interestingly, the plant's rapid growth also stimulates the vibrant red coloration in its stems, contributing to its striking appearance. While red osier dogwood's growth slows in other seasons, the momentum gained in its active growing periods culminates in hardy winter resilience.

Distribution of Red osier dogwood

Distribution Map

The red osier dogwood tree is native to most of North America, except for the Deep South. In the lower Midwestern states it can be found in swampy areas The tree is also planted in yards across the United States. It was introduced into parts of Europe.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Shores, Thickets, Streams, Rivers, Moist sites

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Even though it is a deciduous shrub red osier dogwood offers year-round garden interest, revealing bright red branches in winter. This isn't the most common garden plant but its fragrant and plentiful late spring flowers and white berries are striking and also attract butterflies and waterbirds. It can be grown in beds and borders or beside water features in informal, cottage, city, and traditional gardens. Red osier dogwood makes a great partner plant for daylilies and hydrangeas.

Symbolism

Wishes, Protection, Charm, Strength, Purity, a proposal of marriage

Interesting Facts

The inner bark of red osier dogwood was historically used in multiple smoking mixtures by different indigenous tribes of North America. The widespread Algonquian peoples of North America used red osier dogwood as a component of kinnikinnick, an herbal smoking mixture for social and spiritual practices. The Lakota peoples of the current United States region used it as traditional tobacco.

Name Story

Red osier dogwood: Dogwood comes from Dagwood, which evolved from Dagge. It means that it can make daggers or other sharp objects. This plant has a very obvious feature which is its branches are red making it easily distinguishable and can be woven like willows. So, it is called red osier dogwood.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Red osier dogwood, including the following common varieties :

Red osier dogwood 'Sunshine'Red osier dogwood 'Flaviramea'Red osier dogwood 'Cardinal'

Quickly Identify Red osier dogwood

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.

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Care Guide for Red osier dogwood

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Red osier dogwood thrives in moist, well-drained soils and prefers consistent moisture, typical of its native riverbank and wetland habitats. Weekly watering is essential for hydration, while natural rainfall supports its growth in temperate regions during key developmental phases.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, fertilize red osier dogwood with balanced fertilizer in early spring and late fall. Use high nitrogen sparingly (1/2 cup per shrub) to promote vigor and flowering. Apply slow-release types to avoid overfertilization, and always water thoroughly post-application.

Pruning: Characterized by vibrant red stems, red osier dogwood benefits from annual early spring pruning by cutting one-third of the oldest stems and removing dead wood. Thinning crowded branches enhances regrowth, vibrant coloration, and foliage density, boosting its ornamental value. For best practices, consult reliable horticultural resources.

Propagation: To propagate red osier dogwood, use healthy stem cuttings with several nodes. Place them in a well-draining medium, maintaining steady moisture without saturation. This species thrives in moist but not waterlogged soils, facilitating effective root development.

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Images of Red osier dogwood

Attributes of Red osier dogwood

Distribution of Red osier dogwood

Culture

Cultivars

Quickly Identify Red osier dogwood

Care Guide for Red osier dogwood

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