Trees and shrubs

Red osier dogwood 'Cardinalis'

Cornus sericea

Title

Share
Exposure
Partial shade
Hardiness
Zone 2–7

Discover the plant

Common nameRed osier dogwood 'Cardinalis'
FamilyCornaceae
GenusDogwood
Speciessericea
CultivarCardinal
TypeNative shrub
Botanical nameCornus sericea

Cornus sericea ‘Cardinalis’ is a highly sought-after native ornamental shrub, prized for the exceptional intensity of its cardinal red branches in winter, offering a spectacular visual impact in northern landscapes. It forms a dense, spreading, suckering shrub, ideal for informal hedges, naturalistic plantings, and stabilizing moist soils. Its deciduous medium green foliage turns yellow to reddish in autumn, extending its ornamental appeal before leaf drop. Its discreet spring flowering is followed by white berries highly appreciated by wildlife. Extremely hardy and perfectly adapted to Quebec conditions, Cornus sericea ‘Cardinalis’ is easy to grow, tolerates waterlogged soils, and is an excellent choice for combining biodiversity, structure, and four-season color.

Cornus sericea 'Cardinalis'

Soil and care

The right care,at the right time.

Minimum temperature

-40°C

Watering

Moderate to regular

Soil type

Moist to wet, tolerant

Fertilization

None required

Bloom and dimensions

Its place,in your garden.

Mature height

6.5–10 ft (2–3 m)

Width / spread

3–4 m (10–13 ft)

Flower color

Creamy white

Foliage color

Medium green → reddish-yellow in autumn

Foliage type

Obsolete

Growth rate

Fast

Growth habit

Dense, spreading, suckering shrub

Bloom period

Spring

Fruiting

White berries in clusters, very popular with wildlife

Wildlife and pets

Life,around your plants.

Supporting wildlife

Yes