Redosier Dogwood

Cornus sericea

Cornaceae

• Spokane Native
• USDA Zone 2-8
• Sun - Part Shade
• Size: 2'-4' tall x 2' x 4' wide
• Drought Tolerant: No
• Evergreen: No
• Flower Color: White (May-June)
• Wildlife Value:  Berries for birds, cover for wildlife, pollinator plant
  

Redosier Dogwood is a deciduous shrub with striking red stems that provide exceptional winter interest in the landscape. It thrives in part shade and prefers moist, well-drained soils, making it ideal for rain gardens and riparian areas. The plant spreads slowly to form colonies, creating effective screening and wildlife habitat.

White flower clusters appear in spring from May through June, creating a showy display against the emerging foliage. The flowers give way to white berries in August that mature to blue-white, providing food for birds through late summer and fall. The distinctive red branches become most vibrant in winter, offering year-round visual appeal.

This native shrub provides excellent wildlife value with berries attracting numerous bird species and flowers supporting pollinators. The dense branching structure offers nesting sites and cover for birds and small mammals. Historically, Native American tribes used the flexible red stems for basket weaving and the inner bark had medicinal applications.

Redosier Dogwood works well in mixed shrub borders, naturalized areas, and as part of windbreak plantings. It pairs beautifully with other moisture-loving natives like Western Coneflower, Douglas Hawthorn, and various native grasses. Plant in groups for maximum winter stem color impact and wildlife benefit.