Red Osier Dogwood
Cornus sericea 'Cardinal'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
96 inches
Width
120 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate to high
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Many years
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Fruit is mildly toxic if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
Cornus sericea 'Cardinal' is known for its vibrant red stems and ability to thrive in wet conditions. It typically offers attractive foliage and clusters of white flowers. This cultivar is specifically praised for its striking red stems that provide winter interest and contrast beautifully against snow.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
- Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist during the growing season.
- Mist cuttings with water and place in bright, indirect light for propagation.
- Prune after flowering to shape and remove dead branches, typically late winter.
- Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Feed with a balanced fertilizer in early spring for vigorous growth.
Pro Tip
Ensure well-drained soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
- Prune to shape and remove dead wood
- Mulch to conserve moisture
- Feed with organic compost in spring
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t prune in late summer or fall
- Refrain from planting in poorly drained soil
- Don’t fertilize with high-nitrogen fertilizers in late fall
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| 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
Red Osier Dogwood questions
What zones can Red Osier Dogwood grow in?
Red Osier Dogwood is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Red Osier Dogwood deer resistant?
Yes — Red Osier Dogwood is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Red Osier Dogwood bloom?
Red Osier 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 Red Osier Dogwood need full sun?
Red Osier 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
Golden Dogwood
Cornus sericea 'Golden Dogwood'
Keep exploring
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Hardy in your zone?
Grow Red Osier 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.
