Red-osier Dogwood
Cornus sericea
Last reviewed: July 2026
Red-osier Dogwood is a native shrub found across most US states, blooming May through July with small white flowers. This moisture-loving plant attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles while providing year-round interest with bright red winter stems.
Red-osier Dogwood (Cornus sericea) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org (opens in new tab), last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Red-osier Dogwood as toxic to livestock.
Light
part sun
Water
high
Size
72"–180" H × 72"–180" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, CT and 31 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Deer
Resistant (per Prairie Moon Nursery)
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Red-osier dogwood is a deciduous shrub with striking red stems that provide winter interest. It grows 6-15 feet tall and wide, preferring partial sun and consistently moist soil. White flower clusters in late spring are followed by white berries.
Growing Red-osier Dogwood
Grow Red-osier Dogwood in part sun and high water. Mature plants reach 72 to 180 inches tall and spread 72 to 180 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Red-osier Dogwood is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: foundation, mid zone.
- Can spread aggressively in optimal conditions
- Requires regular moisture which may conflict with drought restrictions
- May look bare in winter despite colorful stems
Wildlife value
Host plant for spring azure butterfly.
Attracts multiple pollinators including bees, butterflies, and beetles. Birds feed on the berries and the dense growth provides good nesting habitat.
Common questions
- When does Red-osier Dogwood bloom?
- Red-osier Dogwood produces small white flowers from May through July, followed by white to bluish berries that provide food for wildlife.
- What growing conditions does Red-osier Dogwood prefer?
- This native shrub thrives in moist to wet soils and can tolerate full sun to partial shade. It naturally grows along streams, wetlands, and other moisture-rich areas.
- What pollinators visit Red-osier Dogwood?
- The flowers attract various pollinators including native bees, butterflies, and beetles. The plant also serves as a host for several butterfly and moth species.
- Where is Red-osier Dogwood native?
- Red-osier Dogwood is native to most US states from coast to coast, including the Pacific Northwest, Rocky Mountains, Great Plains, Great Lakes region, and northeastern states.
- Is Red-osier Dogwood toxic to dogs?
- Red-osier Dogwood is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Red-osier Dogwood toxic to cats?
- Red-osier Dogwood is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is Red-osier Dogwood toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Red-osier Dogwood as toxic to livestock.
- Is Red-osier Dogwood HOA-friendly?
- Red-osier Dogwood is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Red-osier Dogwood? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz