Deciduous shrubs – non-flowering – Red Osier Dogwood

Red osier dogwood 

Botanical name: cornus sericea 

Beginner friendly?: yes

Average size at maturity: up to 13 ft in height with up to  15 ft spread 

Hardy zone: zones 3-8

Foliage color: green, yellow, orange, red, purple

Growth rate: grows 2 ft per year 

Pruning instructions: prune to maintain desired size and shape in the spring

Propagation methods: propagate with cuttings 

Landscape use: borders, screens, focal point 

Light needs: 3-6 hours of sun per day 

Special features: bright red stems, attracts pollinators 

Watering instructions: water when the surface layer of soil dries out 

Fertilizing instructions :  use an all purpose plant food slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring 

Best time to plant: spring or fall

Best type of soil: clay/loam 

Companion plants: winterberry hollies, daylilies, chokeberry, hellebores

Toxicity level: non-toxic for humans and pets

 Invasive species: no