Origin
Cornus sericea L. ssp. stolonifera (Michx.) Fosberg, commonly known as Red-osier Dogwood, is a species of flowering plant in the genus Cornus of the family Cornaceae. The plant is native to North America and can be found throughout the United States and Canada.
Common Names
Red-osier Dogwood is the most common name by which this plant is known. Other common names include American Dogwood, Creek Dogwood, Kinnikinnik, Red-stem Dogwood, Red Willow, and Western Dogwood. The name "red-osier" refers to its bright red bark or stems that add winter interest to the landscape.
Uses
Red-osier Dogwood has many uses, ranging from ornamental to medicinal. Its bright red stems and twigs make it a popular plant in winter landscapes. It is also used for erosion control on stream banks and slopes. In addition, the plant is utilized in traditional medicine by Native American tribes for treating a variety of ailments, including colds, fevers, and stomach issues.
General Appearance
Red-osier dogwood is a deciduous shrub that typically grows to be between 6 and 10 feet tall. Its leaves are simple, oval-shaped, and typically measure 2 to 4 inches long. The plant produces clusters of small white flowers in the late spring or early summer, followed by a white drupe fruit that persists into the winter. The most striking feature of the plant is its bright red bark or stems that provide vibrant color to the landscape, making them a popular choice for winter gardens.
Growth Conditions for Cornus sericea L. ssp. stolonifera (Michx.) Fosberg
Cornus sericea L. ssp. stolonifera (Michx.) Fosberg, commonly known as Red Osier Dogwood, is a deciduous shrub found in wetlands, shrublands, and forest edges across North America. It is a popular choice in landscaping and restoration projects due to its attractive red twigs in the winter and its ability to grow in a variety of soil types. However, to ensure the best growth and health of this plant, it is important to provide it with the appropriate conditions.
Light Requirements
Red Osier Dogwood is a sun-loving plant that requires at least six hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. However, it can also tolerate some shade, especially in hot climates. When grown in full sun, the plant produces more flowers and fruit and has a denser growth habit. In partial shade, the plant may become leggy and produce fewer flowers and fruit.
Temperature Range
Cornus sericea L. ssp. stolonifera is a cold-hardy shrub that can tolerate temperatures as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it also grows well in warmer climates as long as it receives enough water. In areas with hot summers, the plant benefits from some shade during the hottest parts of the day.
Soil Requirements
Red Osier Dogwood is adaptable to a wide range of soil types, but it prefers moist, well-draining soil. It grows best in soils with a pH between 5.0 and 7.0 and can tolerate boggy conditions. In dry conditions, the plant may need supplemental watering to ensure healthy growth.
Adding organic matter, such as compost or leaf litter, to the soil can improve its water-holding capacity and nutrient content. Red Osier Dogwood also benefits from a layer of mulch around its base to retain moisture and prevent weeds from competing with the plant.
Overall, with the proper light, temperature, and soil conditions, Cornus sericea L. ssp. stolonifera (Michx.) Fosberg can thrive and provide year-round beauty to any landscape.
Cultivation Methods
Cornus sericea L. ssp. stolonifera (Michx.) Fosberg, commonly known as red osier dogwood, is a tough, adaptable plant that can grow in many soil conditions. It is native to North America and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It can grow up to 10 feet tall and wide, making it an excellent choice for mass planting, hedges, and erosion control. This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade, and it is an excellent choice for wet conditions. Once established, it requires minimal care and maintenance.
Watering Needs
Red osier dogwood grows well in medium to wet soils, and it is drought resistant once it is fully established. It requires regular watering during the first year of planting to establish the root system. After that, it requires little watering unless there is a prolonged period of drought.
Fertilization
Cornus sericea L. ssp. stolonifera does not require much fertilization. A yearly light application of organic compost or a balanced fertilizer in early spring is sufficient for optimal growth. Over-fertilization can cause excessive growth, which can make the plant more susceptible to disease and insects.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for maintaining the shape and size of the plant. It is best to prune Cornus sericea L. ssp. stolonifera in late winter to early spring when the plant is still dormant. The plant can be pruned by cutting back older branches to the ground level or by thinning out the younger branches. This will encourage more flowers and healthy foliage. It is also recommended to remove any dead or diseased branches annually to maintain plant health.
Propagation of Cornus sericea L. ssp. stolonifera (Michx.) Fosberg
Cornus sericea L. ssp. stolonifera (Michx.) Fosberg, commonly known as red-osier dogwood or American dogwood, is a deciduous shrub that features bright red stems and white flowers in the spring and summer. It is a popular ornamental plant that can be propagated through different methods, including:
Seed propagation
One of the most common ways to propagate Cornus sericea is through seed propagation. Sow the seeds in a nursery bed or a container filled with well-draining potting soil. Keep the soil moist, and place the container or bed in a location with partial shade. Germination should occur within weeks, and seedlings can be transplanted the following year.
Cuttings
Cuttings provide another option for propagating Cornus sericea. Take stem cuttings from the parent plant in late spring or early summer when new growth appears. Use a sharp, sterile knife to make a 3-4 inch cutting from the tip of the stem. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a container with moist, well-drained soil mix and place it in a bright, cool location with indirect sunlight. Keep the soil moist and wait for the cutting to develop roots. Once the roots are well established, transplant the young plant into a larger pot or in the garden.
Suckers
Cornus sericea also produces suckers from its roots. Suckers are young shoots that develop from the plant's underground roots. These can be dug up and separated from the main plant in the fall after the leaves have dropped, or in early spring before new growth appears. Transplant the suckers to their new location, ensuring that the soil is moist and well-draining.
Disease and Pest Management for Cornus sericea L. ssp. stolonifera (Michx.) Fosberg
Cornus sericea L. ssp. stolonifera (Michx.) Fosberg, commonly known as red osier dogwood, is a deciduous shrub that is native to North America. Despite its hardiness, this plant is susceptible to various diseases and pests, which may affect its growth and health. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect the red osier dogwood and the ways to manage them:
Diseases
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes circular or irregular brown spots on the leaves. As the disease progresses, the spots may enlarge and merge, causing the leaves to yellow and drop prematurely. To manage this disease, remove the infected leaves and dispose of them properly. Avoid overhead irrigation and improve air circulation around the plant.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes a white powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers. It can distort the leaves and reduce the plant's vigor. To manage this disease, prune the infected parts of the plant and dispose of them properly. Avoid overhead irrigation and improve air circulation around the plant.
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes brown or black spots on the leaves and stems. It can cause defoliation and weaken the plant. To manage this disease, remove the infected parts of the plant and dispose of them properly. Improve air circulation around the plant, and avoid overhead irrigation.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They can cause curling or distortion of the leaves and stunt the plant's growth. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge them. Encourage natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings that feed on aphids.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that feed on the plant's sap, causing yellow stippling on the leaves. They thrive in hot and dry conditions. To manage spider mites, increase humidity around the plant by misting or using a humidifier. Spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Scale Insects: Scale insects are small insects that attach themselves to the plant and feed on its sap, causing yellowing, wilting, and stunted growth. To manage scale insects, prune the affected parts of the plant and dispose of them properly. Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to the plant.
By managing these common diseases and pests that might affect Cornus sericea L. ssp. stolonifera (Michx.) Fosberg, you can help the plant grow and thrive.
