red-twig dogwood, yellow-twig dogwood

This bush type dogwood is an easy to grow native known for its colorful winter stems of scarlet red, yellow and multicolor. In spring it produces flat topped clusters of white flowers, maturing to white berries over green to grey-green foliage with white edging that turns to shades of burgundy-red in autumn. It’s very attractive year round in the landscape. Use in mixed shrub borders, rain gardens, and cutting gardens for use in holiday arrangements.

Plant in well-drained to moist, amended soil. Water well after planting; maintain 1” of water once a week the first year. Cut back hard in late winter/early spring, or remove 1/4 of the oldest stems for the best twig color. Remove dead or undesirable branches as needed. Feed early spring and mid-summer with a slow release fertilizer. Follow label instructions. Mulch 2″ to suppress weeds, retain moisture and protect against extremes of soil temperature.