Redtwig Dogwood

Cornus S. Baileyii ( Redtwig Dogwood )

• BLOOM TIME: Spring
• MATURE SIZE: 8' x 6'
• USDA HARDINESS: Zone 2 -8
• GROWS BEST IN: Full sun to deep shade-very adaptable!
• USE FOR: Outstanding native shrub for the wild, semi-wild, or even formal garden.

Cornus s. Baileyii is a selected cultivar of the popular native Redtwig Dogwood that found in much of North America. Redtwig Dogwoods are very adaptable and favor moist growing conditions such as those located along streambeds, in swampy areas or adjacent to lakes. As an ornamental landscape shrub, Redtwig Dogwoods excel in providing four seasons of color and interest in the garden. Spring brings a flush of bright green, soft foliage, in the early summer, Redtwig Dogwoods produce fragrant white flowers that are followed by deep, blue colored berries, in the fall the blue berries contrast with the bright red fall foliage color, and winter brings fire-red redtwigs that provide not only visual interest but serve as habitat for winter birds.

Where to Plant Redtwig Dogwood Shrubs

For a dramatic effect, plant Redtwig Dogwoods in groups of three to five, or more, to create a soft green hedge in the summer and a striking fire-red screen in the winter. The flame-red of the Redtwig Dogwood is especially showy when planted with blue-green conifers, or in areas where snowfall occurs. Young dogwoods have bright red stems that will turn a darker burgundy-brown as they age; to keep Redtwig Dogwoods stems red, trim back every year one-third of the stems back to the ground to allow them to resprout. New, strong stems always sprout bright red.

TIPS:

• Trim back in the fall and use the stems of the Redtwig Dogwood to make wreaths for winter decorations. For more information on making wreaths, visit our website.
• Use the stems in fresh or fake floral arrangements.
• Plant Redtwig Dogwood with Cornus flaviramea (Yellowtwig Dogwood) for a striking contrast in the landscape.
• Dogwood is not deer resistant, but they are robust plants that can withstand occasional browsing from deer.
• Excellent wild bird habitat, plant Redtwig Dogwood next to bird feeds and near water to provide shelter for migrating winter birds.