In-Depth Description
Cornus sericea, commonly known as Red Twig Dogwood or Red Osier Dogwood, has an upright-spread, and is a suckering shrub helpful in controlling erosion. Tolerant of clay and wet soil, this species is native to much of North America where it is typically found growing in wet swampy areas, wetland buffers or along lakes and rivers. Flowers give way to clusters of whitish (sometimes with a bluish tinge) drupes in summer. This shrub is favored by many birds for food and breeding habitat including the American goldfinch, Robin, Brown Thrasher, Eastern Bluebird, Gray Catbird, Cardinal, Northern Flicker, Mockingbird, and Purple Finch. Thin out old growth to retain the best winter color.
