Red Osier Dogwood

You encounter Red Twig Dogwood in moist riparian sites and wet meadows throughout the Puget Sound region, identified by its bright red to orange winter twigs and small white flowers in flat clusters. This native shrub's dramatic winter color and bird-attracting berries make it a landscape favorite.

Red Twig Dogwood reaches 6-12 feet tall in sun to part shade with high water needs, performing best in consistently moist to wet soils (zones 2a-8b). Fast-growing and vigorous, it spreads by underground runners in riparian settings. Prune annually in late winter to encourage new red twig growth, as older branches lose color. Watch for leaf spot, canker, and various fungal diseases; multiple insect pests are documented.