Red Osier Dogwood, Cornus sericea is one of six species of dogwoods found in the Ottawa area. It is a beautiful shrub that adds interest to the landscape in all four seasons. The bright red twigs make an appealing contrast against the snow in the winter. Clusters of small white flowers appear in the late spring. Spring/ summer foliage is deep green in color, the leaves are ovate and oppositely arranged. By fall clusters of white berries have developed and the foliage turns a red-purple. Red osier dogwood is fast growing and adaptable to a variety of conditions making it very useful for erosion control and riparian plantings. It is also a very valuable food source for wildlife, the flowers produce nectar for pollinators, the berries are eaten by birds and the twigs are favored by grazers.

Bloomtime: Late Spring, summer
Wildlife benefits: Larval host, nectar source, food source, cover
Uses: Wetland and shoreline plantings, rain gardens, erosion control.
Conditions: Sun to part shade. Wet to medium soils.