Arctic Fire Yellow Red Twig Dogwood

Arctic Fire Yellow Red Twig Dogwood (Cornus sericea 'SMNCSBD')

Arctic Fire Yellow Red Twig Dogwood (Cornus sericea 'SMNCSBD') is a compact, deciduous shrub grown for its striking golden-yellow winter stems and tidy growth habit. As a cold-hardy cultivar of native red twig dogwood, it delivers year-round interest and is especially valued for its bright winter color and wildlife appeal. Part of the Proven Winners� collection, this dwarf selection is easy to maintain and ideal for smaller landscapes.

Distinctive Features

'SMNCSBD', marketed as Arctic Fire� Yellow, stands out for its vibrant golden-yellow stems, which provide a brilliant contrast in winter against snow or dark evergreens. In spring and summer, it produces green foliage and small white flower clusters, followed by white berries that attract birds. With a rounded, compact habit and a mature height of just 3 to 5 feet, this cultivar offers a refined alternative to larger, spreading dogwoods while retaining the native durability and seasonal charm.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Adaptable to most soils; prefers moist, well-drained conditions
• Water: Moderate to high; performs best with consistent moisture
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 2�7

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Vivid yellow stems create strong visual contrast in winter gardens
• Foundation Planting: Compact form suits planting near buildings and patios
• Winter Interest Gardens: Perfect for adding seasonal brightness
• Wildlife Gardens: Flowers and berries support birds and pollinators
• Mass Planting: Excellent in groups for dramatic winter displays

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Keep consistently moist during establishment; more tolerant once mature
• Pruning: Remove older stems in early spring to maintain vivid stem color
• Fertilizing: Apply balanced fertilizer in spring if needed for vigor
• Mulching: Maintain mulch around root zone to retain moisture and suppress weeds
• Protection: No major pest or disease issues; naturally resilient

Why Choose Arctic Fire Yellow Red Twig Dogwood?

• Golden Winter Stems: Bright yellow color lights up winter landscapes
• Compact Size: Great for small gardens and tight spaces
• Native Heritage: Bred from North American dogwood for performance and adaptability
• Seasonal Interest: Multi-season beauty from spring flowers to winter color
• Focal Point: Bold, architectural stem color provides structure and contrast

Cornus sericea 'SMNCSBD' Arctic Fire Yellow offers bold winter appeal, reliable performance, and a tidy footprint�making it a go-to focal point for gardeners who want dependable color and form in every season.