Baileyi Red Twig Dogwood

Baileyi Red Twig Dogwood (Cornus sericea 'Baileyi')

Baileyi Red Twig Dogwood (Cornus sericea 'Baileyi') is a vigorous, upright-growing deciduous shrub prized for its vibrant red stems that bring bold color to winter landscapes. A cultivar of the native red-osier dogwood, it offers multi-season interest with spring flowers, summer berries, fall foliage, and standout winter twigs, making it a reliable performer in both naturalized and designed settings.

Distinctive Features

'Baileyi' is known for its rich, cherry-red stems that glow in winter after the foliage drops, offering excellent contrast against snow or dark backgrounds. In spring, it produces flat-topped clusters of small white flowers, followed by white berries that attract birds. The green foliage turns reddish-purple in fall, adding to its seasonal charm. Unlike some spreading dogwoods, 'Baileyi' maintains a more upright, clump-forming habit, making it easier to contain in landscape designs.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soils but tolerates clay and wet conditions
• Water: Moderate to high; thrives in consistently moist environments
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 2�7

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Bold red stems provide strong winter interest and visual structure
• Rain Gardens: Tolerates wet soils and helps manage runoff
• Hedgerows and Screens: Dense form makes it suitable for privacy or wildlife shelter
• Naturalized Areas: Great for woodland edges, meadows, and streambanks
• Winter Gardens: Outstanding stem color brightens dormant-season plantings

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Keep evenly moist, especially during hot or dry periods
• Pruning: Remove oldest stems in late winter or early spring to promote vivid new growth
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to encourage healthy foliage
• Mulching: Maintain mulch around the base to conserve moisture and reduce weeds
• Protection: Highly tolerant of pests, diseases, and tough conditions

Why Choose Baileyi Red Twig Dogwood?

• Intense Winter Color: Bright red stems provide a dramatic cold-season highlight
• Native Durability: Adapted to a wide range of conditions and soils
• Seasonal Variety: Offers flowers, fruit, fall foliage, and colorful twigs
• Wildlife Friendly: Supports pollinators and provides berries for birds
• Focal Point: Ideal for anchoring winter landscapes or accenting snow-covered gardens

Cornus sericea 'Baileyi' Red Twig Dogwood delivers bold winter color and reliable year-round performance, making it a standout focal point in rain gardens, screens, and native landscapes alike.