Red Twig Dogwood

Overview: A dogwood grown for its bright red winter stems.

Mature size: Approximately 6–9 ft. tall and wide.

Sun exposure: Full sun to partial shade; may need afternoon shade and extra water in hot summers

Flowering season: Late spring, with small white flower clusters, followed by white berries

Hardiness: USDA Zones 3–8

Water needs: Average to consistent moisture; tolerates wet soil and heavy clay

Special features: Deciduous, multi-stemmed shrub grown mainly for its brightly colored winter stems; color is most vivid on young wood, so cut back older stems in early spring to stimulate fresh colorful growth; spreads by suckering to form a colony over time

Wildlife value: Berries eaten by birds; bees visit the flowers

Botanical name: Cornus sericea 'Baileyi'

Category: Shrubs & Trees