Red Osier Dogwood

photo by Susannah Anderson CC BY-NC-ND

Red Osier Dogwood is a many-branched shrub about 6 ft tall. Its red stems and branches are particularly noticeable in winter. Clusters of small white flowers can be seen in June, and they develop into white, waxy berries enjoyed by many different birds. The pointed oval leaves are 1-3 in long.

Red Osier Dogwood grows throughout North America except for the southeastern United States. It grows well in damp areas (ditches, ravines, stream beds).

There are 30-60 species in the Dogwood family identified by their flowers, fruit, and bark. The Pacific Dogwood is a common tree in British Columbia.

Did you know? Red Osier Dogwood can be used for basket weaving.

See Also: Pacific Dogwood