Species

Cornus sericeaRedosier Dogwood

12 other cultivars

shrubN. America Native

Firedance Dogwood

Cornus sericea 'Firedance'

The Story

Plant Bio

Cornus sericea is a multi-stemmed, suckering deciduous shrub native to North America, prized for its colorful winter stems and adaptability to wet soils.

'Firedance' is a compact selection with vibrant red winter stems and attractive reddish-purple fall foliage. It maintains a dense, mounded habit without extensive pruning.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides outstanding four-season interest with spring flowers, summer foliage, fall color, and brilliant red winter stems. Its compact size is perfect for residential landscapes.

Excellent for soil stabilization on slopes and stream banks due to its suckering nature. Can be used as an informal hedge or screen.

The spring flowers provide nectar for pollinators. Its berries are a food source for many bird species in late summer, and the thicket provides cover.

SpeciesCornus sericeaRedosier Dogwood

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

42 inches

Width

48 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

Medium to Wet

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

20+ years

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Late spring – Early summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a location with full sun to part shade and moist soil.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball.
Place the plant in the hole, ensuring the crown is at soil level.
Backfill with native soil and water thoroughly to settle.
Water regularly, especially during the first year to establish roots.
Apply a layer of mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

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

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide consistent moisture, especially in full sun locations.
Prune annually in late winter to encourage new, colorful growth.
Plant in masses for the most dramatic winter display.
Test soil pH if leaves appear chlorotic (yellow).

Don't

Don't let the soil dry out completely for extended periods.
Avoid planting in deep shade, which reduces stem color and flowering.
Don't prune after early spring, as this can remove flower buds.
Avoid piling mulch directly against the stems.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Mulch
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vibrant winter interest for bordersMass planting for erosion control on banksExcellent choice for rain gardens and wet areas

Companion Plants

Salix discolor Ilex verticillata Panicum virgatum Juncus effusus Betula nigra

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Firedance Dogwood questions

What zones can Firedance Dogwood grow in?

Firedance 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 Firedance Dogwood deer resistant?

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

When does Firedance Dogwood bloom?

Firedance 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 Firedance Dogwood need full sun?

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