Cornus sericea
Native to much of the United States the red osier dogwood is a medium sized spreading shrub that can reach heights of up to 12’. Like other dogwoods the leaves on the red osier are lance to ovate shaped with smooth margins. In the fall the leaves turn a reddish-purple color and can be quite showy. Blooms of white clusters of flowers (panicles) form mid to late spring followed by showy white drupes (fruit). The red stems provide this shrub with year-round interest. The red osier dogwood provides dense cover for wildlife. The white berries are eaten by at least 18 species of birds including ruffed grouse, bobwhite quail, wild turkey, and gray catbird. The twigs and foliage are browsed by deer, rabbits and chipmunks.
