Botanical profile

Cornus sericea

Latin name
Cornus sericea
Common name
Red-osier dogwood
Type
Native shrub
Family
Cornaceae

Cornus sericea, commonly known as red-osier dogwood or redtwig dogwood, is a native shrub highly valued for its significant ecological benefits and striking visual impact in winter. It forms a dense, sprawling, and strongly suckering shrub, ideal for informal hedges, naturalistic plantings, and bank stabilization. Its deciduous, medium-green foliage turns yellow to reddish in autumn, then gives way to spectacular bright red stems in the cold season. Its discreet spring flowering is followed by white berries highly prized by wildlife. Extremely hardy and perfectly adapted to Quebec conditions, Cornus sericea tolerates wet soils and temporary flooding, making it a prime choice for promoting biodiversity while structuring the landscape.

Care guide

Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Zone 2–7
Exposure
Sun to partial shade
Watering
Moderate to regular
Fertilization
None required
Soil type
Moist to wet, tolerant
Minimum temperature
-40°C
Plant appearance

Blooming, foliage and shape

Blooming period
Spring
Flower color
Creamy white
Fruiting
White berries in clusters, very popular with wildlife
Foliage color
Medium green → reddish-yellow in autumn
Foliage type
Obsolete
Shape
Dense, spreading, and suckering shrub
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
6.5–10 ft (2–3 m)
Width
3–4 m (10–13 ft)
Growth rate
Fast
Pollinators
Attracts or supports pollinating insects

Pollinators

Butterflies
Plants that attract butterflies

Butterflies

Deer
Less attractive or generally tolerated by deer

Deer

The availability of our plants varies depending on arrivals, seasons, nursery production and supplier availability. Some varieties may be offered for a limited time only, depending on their natural cycle or current stock. These plant profiles are designed to guide and inspire you when choosing plants for the garden, landscaping projects, containers or long-lasting outdoor arrangements.