shrubN. America Native

Arctic Fire Red Twig Dogwood

Cornus sericea 'Farrow'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

42 inches

Width

42 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

High

Humidity

Moderate to high

Lifespan

20-30 years

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets.

The Story

Plant Bio

Cornus sericea, or Redosier Dogwood, is a multi-stemmed, suckering deciduous shrub primarily grown for its brilliant red stems in winter. It is a tough, adaptable North American native. 'Farrow', sold as Arctic Fire®, is a compact selection, growing to about half the size of the species. This makes it an excellent choice for smaller gardens or massing in residential landscapes, providing the same intense red winter stem color on a smaller frame.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

The primary ornamental feature is the brilliant red color of its young stems, which provides stunning visual interest in the winter landscape, especially against snow. It also has pleasant white flowers in spring and reddish-purple fall foliage.

Its tolerance for wet soils makes it an excellent choice for rain gardens, bioswales, and stabilizing stream banks. The compact size of Arctic Fire® allows it to be used in smaller spaces and even large containers.

As a North American native, it is a valuable wildlife plant. The spring flowers support pollinators, the berries are eaten by dozens of bird species, and the thicket-forming habit provides cover and nesting sites for birds.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a site with full sun to part shade; full sun gives best stem color.
This shrub thrives in moist to wet soils but adapts to others.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the pot and just as deep.
Place the plant in the hole, ensuring the crown is level with the soil.
Backfill with soil, firm it gently, and water thoroughly.
Mulch to conserve moisture, which this plant appreciates.

Pro Tip

For the brightest red stems, prune out one-third of the oldest canes each year in early spring.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide consistent moisture, especially in the first year.
Prune regularly to encourage the growth of new, brightly colored stems.
Plant in groups or masses for the most dramatic winter effect.
Use the cut stems in winter floral arrangements and containers.

Don't

Do not let the soil dry out for extended periods.
Avoid planting in deep shade, which results in poor stem color and leggy growth.
Don't be afraid to prune it hard; it's very forgiving.
Refrain from shearing into a formal shape; it looks best when natural.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
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 bordersMass planting for a stunning winter displayExcellent for rain gardens and wet areas

Companion Plants

Betula nigra 'Cully' Ilex verticillata 'Winter Red' Carex pensylvanica Panicum virgatum 'Northwind' Hamamelis virginiana

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Arctic Fire Red Twig Dogwood questions

What zones can Arctic Fire Red Twig Dogwood grow in?

Arctic Fire Red Twig 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 Arctic Fire Red Twig Dogwood deer resistant?

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

When does Arctic Fire Red Twig Dogwood bloom?

Arctic Fire Red Twig 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 Arctic Fire Red Twig Dogwood need full sun?

Arctic Fire Red Twig Dogwood does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.