Irish Setter Dogwood

Irish Setter Dogwood (Cornus racemosa 'I.N. Red Stem')

Irish Setter Dogwood (Cornus racemosa 'I.N. Red Stem') is a standout selection of Gray Dogwood known for its brilliant red stems, dense branching, and adaptability to a wide range of growing conditions. This North American native cultivar offers bold winter interest, creamy white spring flowers, and a rugged, multi-stemmed habit that excels in naturalistic and low-maintenance plantings.

Distinctive Features

'I.N. Red Stem' is prized for its striking red stems that intensify in fall and winter, providing exceptional cold-season color against snow or evergreen backdrops. In spring, upright clusters of small white flowers bloom at the tips of branches, followed by white fruit held on vivid red pedicels in late summer. The foliage turns soft shades of burgundy and purple in fall. This cultivar maintains a compact, rounded habit and is particularly effective in mass plantings or mixed borders.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Tolerates a wide range of soils; prefers moist, well-drained sites
• Water: Moderate; handles wet conditions once established
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3�8

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Bright red stems create strong winter contrast in the landscape
• Naturalized Areas: Works well in meadows, woodland edges, and wildlife gardens
• Mass Planting: Creates a colorful hedge or thicket with year-round appeal
• Foundation Plantings: Adds structure and color to building edges
• Rain Gardens: Adaptable to both moist and dry soils, ideal for stormwater management

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Regular watering during establishment; tolerant of seasonal wetness or dryness
• Pruning: Cut back oldest stems in late winter to encourage fresh red growth
• Fertilizing: Generally not needed; apply a light balanced fertilizer in spring if growth is poor
• Mulching: Apply mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
• Protection: Resistant to deer and adaptable to urban conditions

Why Choose Irish Setter Dogwood?

• Brilliant Winter Stems: Bright red stems bring color to cold-season landscapes
• Native Resilience: North American species well-suited to local ecosystems
• Wildlife-Friendly: Flowers attract pollinators and fruit supports birds
• Versatile and Tough: Thrives in tough spots, including poor soils and wet areas
• Focal Point: Eye-catching winter color makes this dogwood a four-season performer

Cornus racemosa 'I.N. Red Stem' combines native durability with bold color, offering a reliable focal point or backdrop in both formal and naturalistic plantings across a wide range of conditions.