Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
120 inches
Width
120 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Decades
Native To
Europe and Western Asia
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Cornus sanguinea, commonly known as bloodtwig dogwood, is a deciduous shrub recognized for its striking red stems and attractive foliage. Notable for its vibrant stem color in winter, making it a popular choice for winter interest in gardens.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Select a sunny location with well-drained soil for planting.
- Dig a hole twice as wide and the same depth as the root ball.
- Gently place the plant in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.
- Backfill with native soil, firming gently to eliminate air pockets.
- Water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots.
- Apply mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage vigorous growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
- Prune in late winter or early spring
- Feed with a balanced fertilizer annually
- Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don't prune in late summer or fall
- Refrain from planting in poorly drained areas
- Avoid using excessive fertilizer
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Bloodtwig Dogwood questions
What zones can Bloodtwig Dogwood grow in?
Bloodtwig 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 Bloodtwig Dogwood deer resistant?
Yes — Bloodtwig Dogwood is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Bloodtwig Dogwood bloom?
Bloodtwig Dogwood typically blooms in late spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Bloodtwig Dogwood need full sun?
Bloodtwig Dogwood does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Cornus to compare
Red Twig Dogwood
Cornus sericea 'Red Twig'
Arctic Fire Red Osier Dogwood
Cornus sericea 'Arctic Fire'
Kousa Dogwood
Cornus kousa
Midwinter Fire Dogwood
Cornus sanguinea 'Midwinter Fire'
Giant Dogwood, Wedding Cake Tree
Cornus controversa
Red Osier Dogwood
Cornus sericea 'Cardinal'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
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Hardy in your zone?
Grow Bloodtwig Dogwood with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
