Pasque Time: A Monthly Portrait of Black Hills Flora
Red-osier dogwood (Cornus sericea) is a powerhouse native shrub that brings as much function as it does flair to a landscape. Often called red-twig dogwood, this resilient plant is a top pick for gardeners looking to support local ecosystems while maintaining year-round visual appeal.
Why You Should Plant Red-osier Dogwood
Stunning Winter Interest: Its most famous feature is its vibrant red stems, which provide a striking contrast against white snow. For the brightest color, perform "renewal pruning" by cutting back the oldest third of the stems every few years to encourage fresh, vividly colored new growth.
Wildlife Superfood: This shrub is a biodiversity magnet, providing food and shelter for nearly 100 species of birds, including bluebirds and robins. It also serves as a host plant for the Spring Azure butterfly and supports over 120 caterpillar species.
Natural Erosion Control: With a dense, fibrous root system, Cornus sericea is a "restoration superstar". It is widely used to stabilize streambanks, prevent soil runoff, and manage stormwater in rain gardens.
Adaptable and Low Maintenance: While it thrives in wet, swampy areas where other plants might struggle, it is remarkably adaptable to various soil types and light conditions, from full sun to partial shade.
Deep Cultural Roots: Beyond its ecological roles, Indigenous communities have long valued the plant for its medicinal properties and its flexible branches, which are used for traditional basket weaving and ceremonies.
Quick Planting Facts
Mature Size: 6–10 feet tall and wide
Best Light: Full sun for the brightest stem color
Hardiness: Extremely cold-tolerant (USDA Zones 2–7)
Growth Rate: Rapid; spreads by suckers to form thickets
Whether you're looking to stop erosion on a slope or simply want a pop of color in the dead of winter, the red-osier dogwood is a versatile partner for any landscape.
Cornus sericea, red-osier (aka red-twig) dogwood. Why the red? That brilliant crimson isn't just for show! It’s caused by anthocyanins—the same pigments that turn autumn leaves red. According to the USDA Plant Guide, these pigments act as a "botanical sunscreen," protecting the plant's delicate tissues from the harsh, high-altitude sun during the cold Black Hills winters.