Bare Root Shrubs & Hedge Plants
Redosier Dogwood 6-10 ft.
Cornus sericea
Starting at$0.50
Available options
About this plant
Redosier Dogwood is a hardy, multi-stemmed shrub valued for vivid red to burgundy young stems, especially after leaf drop. It produces clusters of small white flowers followed by white berries and spreads to form an effective hedge, screen, or naturalized planting.
- USDA hardiness2-7
- LightFull sun to partial shade. Stem color is generally strongest in full sun.
- WaterKeep evenly moist, especially during establishment. Performs best in consistently moist soils and tolerates wet conditions.
- SoilMoist, well-drained to poorly drained soil; adaptable to clay, loam, and sandy soils. Prefers organic-rich soil.
- Mature height72–120 in.
- Mature spread72–120 in.
- Growth habitUpright, multi-stemmed, suckering shrub
- Growth rateFast
Landscape uses
Hedges, screens, stream banks, rain gardens, erosion control, wildlife gardens, naturalized plantings, and winter-interest gardens.
Planting schedule
Plant bare-root shrubs in early spring while plants are dormant, or in fall where soils remain workable.
How to plant
Plant promptly after arrival. Keep roots moist until planting. Dig a hole wide enough to spread the roots naturally, set the shrub at the same depth it grew previously, backfill with native soil, water thoroughly, and apply a layer of mulch without touching the stems.
Care guide
Water deeply and regularly during the first growing season. Maintain consistent moisture, especially in sunny sites, and renew mulch as needed. Feed only if soil conditions indicate a need.
Pruning
Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove dead, damaged, and oldest stems at the base to encourage vigorous, colorful new shoots. Thin suckers as needed to control spread.
Common problems
Potential problems include stem canker, leaf spot, powdery mildew, scale, and occasional chewing by insect pests. Poor vigor commonly results from drought or insufficient moisture.
Seasonal care
- Spring: Plant dormant bare-root shrubs, water thoroughly, renew mulch, and prune out old or damaged stems before new growth begins.
- Summer: Maintain even soil moisture and monitor foliage and stems for disease or insect damage.
- Fall: Water during dry periods, remove fallen diseased foliage, and allow the colorful stems to provide seasonal interest.
- Winter: Protect young plants from drying winds and heavy snow loads; avoid pruning until late winter.
Frequently asked questions
How large does Redosier Dogwood grow?
Redosier Dogwood commonly reaches 6 to 10 feet tall and wide, though size varies with growing conditions and pruning.
Where should I plant Redosier Dogwood?
Choose a site in full sun to partial shade with consistently moist soil. It is especially useful near ponds, streams, rain gardens, and other moist areas.
When should bare-root Redosier Dogwood be planted?
Plant bare-root shrubs in early spring while dormant, or in fall where the ground remains workable. Keep the roots moist until planting.
How do I maintain red stems?
Remove some of the oldest stems at the base in late winter or early spring. Regular renewal pruning encourages new shoots with the strongest color.