Cardinal Red Twig Dogwood

Cardinal Red Twig Dogwood (Cornus sericea 'Cardinal')

Cardinal Red Twig Dogwood (Cornus sericea 'Cardinal') is a fast-growing, deciduous shrub celebrated for its brilliant red stems that light up the winter landscape. A vigorous selection of native red-osier dogwood, 'Cardinal' offers striking cold-season color, lush green summer foliage, and strong wildlife value, making it a standout in both ornamental and naturalized settings.

Distinctive Features

'Cardinal' is known for its exceptionally bright red stems that develop vibrant coloration in fall and remain striking throughout winter. White flowers bloom in late spring, giving way to clusters of white berries that attract birds and other wildlife. The foliage is a rich green during the growing season and shifts to burgundy-red in autumn. Its upright, spreading habit and bold winter presence make it a go-to choice for multi-season interest.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soils; tolerates clay and wet areas
• Water: Moderate to high; thrives in consistently moist conditions
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3�7

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Intense red winter stems add architectural interest to dormant gardens
• Rain Gardens: Performs well in wet soils and helps control erosion
• Wildlife Gardens: Supports pollinators and provides berries for birds
• Mass Planting: Bold color impact when planted in groups
• Naturalized Areas: Ideal for streambanks, meadows, and woodland edges

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Maintain consistent moisture, especially during dry spells
• Pruning: Remove older stems in late winter to encourage vivid new growth
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring if needed
• Mulching: Use mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds
• Protection: Very resilient and tolerant of urban and rural conditions

Why Choose Cardinal Red Twig Dogwood?

• Striking Red Stems: Among the brightest winter twigs available
• Fast Growth: Quickly fills space in new plantings
• Native Toughness: Cold-hardy and adaptable to many landscapes
• Seasonal Interest: Offers flowers, berries, fall foliage, and winter color
• Focal Point: Vibrant winter presence anchors landscapes year-round

Cornus sericea 'Cardinal' is a bold and reliable shrub that delivers outstanding winter color, ecological value, and low-maintenance versatility�an excellent focal point for any garden with seasonal flair.