Red Osier Dogwood
Deciduous shrub growing 1.5-2.5 m tall. Features opposite, oval leaves and flat-topped clusters of white flowers in late spring, followed by white or pale blue berries. Known for bright red stems in winter. Prefers moist to wet soils and full sun to partial shade. Provides food and cover for wildlife. Useful for erosion control along waterways. Suitable for rain gardens, wetland margins, and winter interest in landscapes.
Plant Details
Bloom Colour: White
Bloom Time: Late-Spring to Early-Summer
Sun Requirements: Sun to Part-Shade
Moisture: Moist to Wet
Phenology: Leaves emerge May. White flower clusters appear June. White fruits mature August-September. Purple-red fall color develops October. Bright red stems prominent in winter.
Wildlife Value: Exceptional wildlife value; berries eaten by >30 bird species; dense cover for nesting birds; twigs browsed by deer and rabbits in winter
Habit Over Time: Forms broad thickets through layering branches and underground stems, creating a dense network of bright-colored twigs. New stems emerge both from the base and where branches touch the ground. While it can spread extensively, its height remains consistent and it can be readily contained through pruning. The multitude of stems creates a translucent effect that becomes denser near the ground.
Height: Tall (6-12 feet)