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Description
Cornus Sericea, commonly known as Red Osier Dogwood, is a deciduous shrub that is native to North America. It is a member of the Dogwood family and is known for its striking red bark.
Taxonomy
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cornales |
| Family | Cornaceae |
| Genus | Cornus |
Appearance
The Red Osier Dogwood can grow up to 10 feet tall and 10 feet wide. Its leaves are oval-shaped and can be up to 6 inches long. In the fall, the leaves turn a bright red color. The shrub produces clusters of small, white flowers in the spring, followed by white berries in the summer. The most striking feature of this plant is its red bark, which is brightest in the winter.
Care Guide
The Red Osier Dogwood thrives in moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade. It is hardy in zones 2-7. It is important to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the first year of growth. Fertilize the shrub in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Prune in the late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Red Osier Dogwood is susceptible to a few pests and diseases. Aphids can be a problem, as well as scale insects. Powdery mildew and leaf spot are common diseases that can affect this plant. Keeping the plant healthy through proper care can help prevent these issues.
Habitat
The Red Osier Dogwood is native to wetlands and streambanks in North America. It can also be found in forests and along roadsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Red Osier Dogwood be grown in a container?
A: Yes, it can be grown in a container if the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: Can the Red Osier Dogwood be grown in full shade?
A: While it can tolerate partial shade, it will not thrive in full shade.
Q: Does the Red Osier Dogwood attract wildlife?
A: Yes, the plant’s berries are a food source for birds and small mammals.
Q: Can the Red Osier Dogwood be propagated through cuttings?
A: Yes, it can be propagated through softwood cuttings taken in the early summer.
Related Plants
- Cornus alba (Tatarian dogwood)
- Cornus florida (Flowering dogwood)
- Cornus kousa (Kousa dogwood)
- Cornus mas (Cornelian cherry dogwood)
References
- “Cornus sericea.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 15 Feb. 2022. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=278480&isprofile=0&=&perpage=10&page=1&searchcode=77239001&url=PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=278480>
- “Red Osier Dogwood.” The Morton Arboretum. Accessed 15 Feb. 2022. <https://www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/red-osier-dogwood>
- “Cornus sericea.” Plants for a Future. Accessed 15 Feb. 2022. <https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Cornus+sericea>
