
Common Name: Cardinal Dogwood
Botanical name: Cornus sericea ‘Cardinal’ Overview A vivid selection of red twig dogwood prized for its intense bright red winter stems that provide outstanding seasonal color. Creamy-white flower clusters appear in late spring, followed by white berries that contrast with the foliage. Summer leaves are medium green, turning reddish to purple tones in fall. ‘Cardinal’ is valued for strong stem color, durability, and dependable landscape performance. Size Width: 6–10 ft Height: 6–10 ft Hardiness USDA Zones: 2a–7b Light Full sun to partial shade Best stem color develops in full sun Soil Well-drained to wet soils; highly adaptable Tolerates clay, loam, or sandy soils Slightly acidic to neutral pH preferred Attracts Pollinators (flowers) Birds (berries) Wildlife (cover and food source) Suitable Conditions Performs best in cold to moderate climates Tolerates wet soils, seasonal flooding, and urban conditions Excellent for rain gardens, naturalized areas, and mass plantings Notes Shape: Upright, multi-stemmed shrub forming colonies Noted for especially bright winter stem color Winter color strongest on young growth; prune older stems periodically Excellent for winter-interest plantings and erosion control Spreads by suckers to form thickets
| Plant Type: | Deciduous Shrub, Flowering Shrub |
| Width: | 10' |
| Height: | 10' |
| Fragrant: | Yes |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
| Zone: | 2 - 7 |
| Deer Resistant: | Yes |
| Salt Tolerant: | No |
| Drought Tolerant: | No |
| Attract: | Birds |
| Exposure: | Full Sun, Partial Shade |
| Bloom Time: | Late Spring |
| Landscape/Use: | Mass Planting, Hedge, Accent Plant |
| Shape: | Clump, Upright |
| Soil Type | Clay, Loamy well-drained |
| Flower Color: | White |
| Leaf Color: | Green |
| Fall Color: | Purple |