Red Osier Dogwood is a deciduous shrub celebrated for its dramatic winter presence and ecological value. Growing 8 to 10 feet tall, this suckering shrub produces white flowers in spring and blue berries that birds eagerly devour throughout the seasons. What truly distinguishes it, though, is its striking red branch color that emerges in autumn and intensifies through winter after the foliage drops, creating a bold architectural element in the dormant garden. Hardy from zones 3 to 9, it thrives in both full sun and partial shade, though it performs best in damp locations where its natural spreading habit can be managed.
Partial Sun
High
3-9
96in H x ?in W
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High
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The red branches that emerge in late autumn are the real showstopper here, providing intense winter color long after other plants have faded to brown. This shrub naturally spreads through suckering, making it exceptional as a thick, impenetrable hedge when spaced 3 to 4 feet apart. Hard pruning every couple of years keeps the stems vigorous, encouraging the brightest red coloration and maintaining a compact form under 6 feet. The combination of ornamental winter interest, summer white flowers, blue berries for wildlife, and reliable autumn foliage color makes it a four-season performer.
Red Osier Dogwood is primarily grown as an ornamental hedge and landscape shrub, valued for creating dense screens and borders. Its winter branch color makes it a favorite choice for seasonal arrangements and holiday decorations. Beyond aesthetics, it serves an important ecological role, with its blue berries providing essential food for migrating birds and native wildlife throughout autumn and early winter.
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Prune hard every couple of years to maintain vigor and maximize winter color intensity. Cut stems back to encourage fresh new growth, which produces the brightest red coloration. Keep the overall height under 6 feet to maintain dense branching and prevent the shrub from becoming tall and sparse. Pruning should ideally occur in late winter or early spring, just before new growth emerges, allowing the new stems to develop fully before the dramatic autumn color display.
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