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Red-osier Dogwood

Cornus stolonifera

Red-osier dogwood is a fast-growing, suckering shrub best known for its bright red stems, which light up the winter landscape long after the leaves have dropped. Clusters of small white flowers appear in late spring, followed by white to bluish berries that are a favourite of songbirds. Reaching 2-4 m tall, it thrives in moist soil along streambanks, wetland edges, and low spots that stay damp through the season, making it an excellent choice for riparian restoration, erosion control, or a hedgerow with year-round interest.

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Growing Tips

Plant in moist to wet soil along streambanks or low spots that stay damp. Establishes quickly and suckers readily, so give it room to spread. Prune old stems in late winter to encourage the brightest red new growth.

Detailed Description

Scientific Name: Cornus stolonifera
Plant Family: Cornaceae
Flower Colour: White
Flowering Months: May-July
Height (feet): 2-4 m (6-13 ft)
Lifespan: Perennial shrub
Growth Form: Deciduous, suckering shrub
Leaf Retention: Deciduous
Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
Soil Moisture: Moist to wet
Drought Tolerance: Low
Fire Tolerance: Unknown

Pollinators & Wildlife

Palatability (Browsing/Grazing): Unknown
Pollinator Value: High
Benefits To Pollinators: Nectar and pollen for bees and flies; berries are an important food source for songbirds
Pollinators: Bees, flies, beetles
Larval Host (Butterfly): Yes
Larval Host (Moth): Yes
Larval Species (Lepidoptera): Spring Azure; various sphinx moths
Hummingbirds: No