Red Twig Dogwood

About this plant

Ignite your landscape with the fiery beauty of the Red Twig Dogwood (Cornus sericea), a standout deciduous shrub offering year-round appeal. Its most captivating feature emerges after leaf drop, when brilliant scarlet stems create a stunning focal point against a snowy backdrop or the muted tones of a winter garden. Beyond its dramatic winter display, this adaptable plant boasts attractive green foliage throughout spring and summer, often accompanied by clusters of small white flowers that give way to white berries, a favorite food source for birds. As autumn approaches, the leaves transform into rich purples and reds, adding another layer of seasonal color. Ideal for mass plantings, riparian zones, or as a striking specimen, the Red Twig Dogwood thrives in a variety of conditions and is relatively low-maintenance. Regular pruning encourages the brightest stem color, ensuring a spectacular show season after season.

Care & maintenance

Easily maintained. Prune radically in late winter or early spring every 2-3 years, cutting stems back to 6-12 inches from the ground, to encourage the brightest new stem growth. Can also be pruned annually by removing 1/3 of the oldest stems.