Overview
Cornus alba L. ssp. stolonifera (Michx.) Wangerin is a deciduous shrub in the family Cornaceae. It is commonly known as red-osier dogwood or red-stemmed dogwood due to its distinctive bright red branches. The plant is native to North America and is widely distributed across Canada and the northern United States.Appearance
Red-osier dogwood is a medium-sized shrub that typically grows to a height of 6-9 feet and can spread up to 12 feet wide. Its stem and branches are bright red in color and provide striking winter interest in the landscape. The leaves are ovate, about 2-4 inches long, and turn a purplish-red in the fall. The plant produces clusters of small white flowers in the summer that give way to small blue-black berries in the fall.Uses
Red-osier dogwood has a variety of uses in the landscape. Its bright red branches make it an excellent choice for winter ornamental interest, and it is often used in naturalistic plantings and mass plantings. The plant is also valued for erosion control due to its extensive root system and ability to form dense thickets. Native Americans historically used the stem bark of red-osier dogwood to make a tea for medicinal purposes, and the plant has also been used in basketry and other crafts. Overall, Cornus alba L. ssp. stolonifera is a versatile and attractive shrub that can add a pop of color and interest to any landscape.Light Requirements
Cornus alba L. ssp. stolonifera (Michx.) Wangerin commonly grows in full sun to partial shade conditions. It requires adequate light exposure to facilitate its growth and development.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can adapt to different temperature ranges, from cool temperate to subarctic conditions. It thrives well in USDA hardiness zones 2 to 7. It can tolerate cold temperatures as low as -40°F (-40°C) but prefers a temperature range of 60°F (16°C) to 75°F (24°C).
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers moist, well-drained soils, and can grow in various soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clayey soils. It grows well in a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. It also tolerates occasional flooding and drought conditions and can grow in areas with poor drainage.
Cultivation
Cornus alba L. ssp. stolonifera (Michx.) Wangerin, commonly known as redtwig dogwood, is a deciduous shrub that is native to North America. This hardy plant is adaptable to a range of soil types and can tolerate both shade and full sun. When planting, choose a location that receives at least six hours of sunlight daily and has well-draining soil.
The best time to plant redtwig dogwood is in the spring, after the threat of frost has passed. Dig a hole that is twice as wide and deep as the root ball. Backfill the hole with a mix of soil and compost, making sure the plant is level with the ground. Water thoroughly after planting to remove any air pockets.
Watering Needs
Redtwig dogwood requires regular watering, especially during the first growing season. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil type. Ensure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged.
During periods of drought, increase watering frequency to prevent the plant from drying out. When watering, avoid getting water on the leaves as this can increase the risk of fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Redtwig dogwood does not require regular fertilization, as it can obtain most of its nutrients from the soil. However, applying a slow-release fertilizer in the spring can improve growth and overall health. Choose a fertilizer that is high in nitrogen and phosphorus, but low in potassium.
Apply the fertilizer around the base of the plant, being careful not to get it on the leaves or stems. Water thoroughly after applying to help the roots to absorb the nutrients.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential aspect of redtwig dogwood care, as it helps to promote healthy growth and maintain an attractive shape. The best time to prune is in late winter when the plant is dormant.
To remove dead or damaged branches, use sharp, clean pruning shears and make a clean cut just above a bud or branch junction. To encourage the growth of new stems with bright red bark, cut back one-third of the oldest stems to the ground. This will stimulate the growth of new stems that will produce colorful bark.
Regularly pruning will prevent the plant from becoming overgrown and dense, allowing air and light to circulate throughout the plant. It will also help to control the spread of any diseases or pests.
Propagation of Cornus alba L. ssp. stolonifera (Michx.) Wangerin
Cornus alba L. ssp. stolonifera (Michx.) Wangerin, commonly known as Red Twig Dogwood, is a deciduous shrub that is native to North America. It is widely grown in gardens and landscapes for its bright red stems that add year-round interest. The plant can be propagated by both sexual and asexual methods.
Sexual Propagation
The propagation of Red Twig Dogwood by seed is possible, but it is not the most reliable method. The seeds of this plant require a period of cold stratification to break the dormancy and allow germination. This process can take up to 2-3 months, and the germination rate can be low.
Asexual Propagation
Red Twig Dogwood can be propagated asexually through several methods, including stem cuttings, layering, and division. These methods are reliable and can produce genetically identical plants.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are a common method for propagating Red Twig Dogwood. They can be taken in early summer when the new growth has hardened but has not yet turned woody. The cuttings should be 4-6 inches long and taken from healthy, disease-free plants. They should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining potting mix. The cuttings should be kept moist and covered with a plastic bag to retain humidity until roots form.
Layering
Layering is another method for propagating Red Twig Dogwood. It involves bending a low-growing branch to the ground, making a small cut in the bark, and covering the cut with soil. The branch will form roots where it touches the soil, and can then be separated from the mother plant and transplanted.
Division
Division is a method of propagating Red Twig Dogwood by separating an established plant into smaller sections. This method is best done in early spring or fall when the plant is dormant. The plant should be dug up and divided into sections with a sharp knife, making sure each section has a healthy root system. The sections can then be replanted in a new location.
Disease Management
Cornus alba L. ssp. stolonifera is known to be susceptible to various diseases, including leaf spots, powdery mildew, and cankers. Leaf spots are typically caused by fungal infections and appear as brown or black spots on the leaves. Powdery mildew, on the other hand, is a fungal infection that leaves white or gray powdery coating on the leaves. Cankers are caused by bacteria or fungi, and they appear as open sores on the bark of the plant, which can lead to stem dieback and eventual death of the plant.
To manage these diseases, it is essential to practice good sanitation practices such as pruning and removing infected plant parts, disposing of them properly, and avoiding overcrowding in garden settings. If the infection is severe, a fungicide treatment may be necessary.
Pest Management
Cornus alba L. ssp. stolonifera is susceptible to insect infestations such as borers, scale, and aphids, which can cause damage to the plant. Borers, for example, lay their eggs on the bark of the plant, causing tunnels and damage to the stem of the plant. Scale insects, on the other hand, can infest the leaves and stems of the plant, causing them to distort and turn yellow or brown. Aphids are small insects that suck on the plant's sap, causing stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves.
Managing pests on Cornus alba L. ssp. stolonifera generally involves early detection and physical removal of affected parts of the plant. If Pest infestation is severe, an application of insecticidal soap or neem oil may be necessary. It is also important to promote good plant health through proper watering and fertilization practices.
