Pocket BotanistPlant guide
Red Osier Dogwood.
Cornus sericea
Pronounced KOR-nus seh-RIS-ee-uh
Also known as American dogwood, Bailey's dogwood, Red-osier Dogwood, Red-osier Dogwood, Red Willow, Redosier, Redosier Dogwood
This hardy shrub is a favorite for its stunning bright red stems that really pop against winter snow. It is a fantastic choice for adding seasonal interest and supporting local wildlife in your garden. You will love how easily it adapts to various soil conditions.
At a glance
- Care level
- Easy
- Plant type
- Deciduous shrub
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Indoor light
- Bright indirect
- Water
- Every 7 to 14 days
- Mature size
- 6 to 9 feet
- Growth rate
- Fast
Care
Plant this shrub in a spot with plenty of moisture and watch for signs of leaf spot or scale insects. Prune out the oldest stems every few years to keep the vibrant red color fresh and bright. It is a very forgiving plant that thrives with minimal fuss.
- Watering
- Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the first year of establishment.
- Feeding
- Apply a balanced fertilizer once in early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning
- Remove one third of the oldest stems each year in late winter to encourage new, colorful growth.
- Repotting
- If grown in a container, move to a larger pot every few years as the root system expands.
- Soil
- Moist, well-draining soil
- Soil pH
- 5.5 to 7.5
Safety
- Pets
- This plant is generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs.
How to identify it
- Bright red winter stems
- Opposite, simple green leaves
- Small white spring flowers
- Clusters of white berries
- Deciduous shrub habit
Science
- Family
- Cornaceae
- Genus
- Cornus
- Order
- Cornales
- Class
- Magnoliopsida
Taxonomy resolved against GBIF.
Is your red osier dogwood looking unwell?
This page is a general guide. Pocket Botanist diagnoses problems from a photo of your actual plant, works out watering for your light and conditions, and reminds you when care is due.
This guide was generated with AI and checked against GBIF taxonomy. It is general information, not horticultural or veterinary advice. Read about how we build these guides.