Red Twig Dogwood Shrub

Red twig dogwood is the common landscape name for Cornus sericea, a vigorous, multi-stemmed shrub native across much of North America. It combines white early-summer flowers and pale berries with green leaves that turn orange, red, or purple, followed by bright red winter stems. [North Carolina Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/cornus-sericea/common-name/redstem-dogwood/) lists mature plants around 6–9 feet tall and wide, while local size and suckering vary with growing conditions. ## Landscape Use Use it for rain gardens, stream edges, shrub borders, screening, or erosion control where its colony-forming roots have room. The bright young stems provide winter contrast, and flowers and berries support pollinators and birds. ## Growing Conditions Full sun to partial shade works; in hot climates, afternoon shade can reduce stress. It tolerates wet and dry soils but generally grows best in organically rich, consistently moist ground. Established shrubs can spread by underground stems, so site them where natural expansion is welcome. ## Maintenance Prune in early spring to encourage vigorous new stems with the strongest color. Root-prune with a spade if the colony begins to spread beyond its intended area, and remove damaged or crowded stems as needed.