shrubN. America Native

Bergeson Compact Dogwood

Cornus 'Bergeson Compact'

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

60 inches

Width

60 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

Medium to wet

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

Medium-lived shrub

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic, but berries are not palatable

The Story

Plant Bio

Cornus sericea, the Red Osier Dogwood, is a multi-stemmed deciduous shrub native to North America, prized for its colorful winter stems. 'Bergeson Compact' is a smaller, more compact selection, reaching only about 4-5 feet tall and wide, making it suitable for smaller gardens while still providing brilliant red winter stem color.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

The main ornamental feature is the brilliant red bark on young stems, which provides stunning color and contrast against snow or a dull winter landscape. Its compact size makes it a versatile choice for adding four-season interest to any garden.

Its dense, suckering root system makes it an excellent choice for soil stabilization on banks and slopes, and for erosion control. It is also a great plant for rain gardens due to its tolerance of wet soils.

As a North American native, it provides significant wildlife value. The spring flowers attract pollinators, while the white berries in late summer are a food source for dozens of bird species. The thicket-forming habit also offers cover and nesting sites.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a site in full sun for the best stem color.
This shrub is highly adaptable to various soil types.
Dig a hole as deep and twice as wide as the pot.
Set the plant in the hole, ensuring it's at the same depth.
Backfill with soil and water in well.
Mulch to retain moisture, especially in drier sites.

Pro Tip

For the most vibrant red stems, prune out one-third of the oldest canes down to the ground each year in late winter.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide consistent water, especially in the first year.
Prune annually to encourage new growth with the best color.
Plant in groups or masses for the best winter effect.
Use as a naturalizing shrub in wet or difficult areas.

Don't

Don't let the soil dry out for extended periods.
Avoid planting in deep shade, which reduces vigor and stem color.
Do not shear into a formal shape; it ruins the natural habit.
Don't be afraid to prune hard; it's very forgiving.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Mulch
Plant
Propagate
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vibrant winter interest in mixed bordersExcellent for mass plantings and bank stabilizationNaturalistic choice for rain gardens or wet areas

Companion Plants

Panicum virgatum Salix discolor Betula nigra Iris versicolor Eupatorium maculatum

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Bergeson Compact Dogwood questions

What zones can Bergeson Compact Dogwood grow in?

Bergeson Compact Dogwood is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Bergeson Compact Dogwood deer resistant?

Yes — Bergeson Compact Dogwood is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Bergeson Compact Dogwood bloom?

Bergeson Compact Dogwood typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Bergeson Compact Dogwood need full sun?

Bergeson Compact Dogwood does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.