Cornus sericea, the American dogwood, is a deciduous shrub known for its striking red bark in winter and clusters of white flowers in spring.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to partial shade
50% intensity
Best stem color in full sun, but tolerates partial shade.
Consistent moisture
75% intensity
Prefers moist, well-drained soil.
Well-drained, acidic to neutral
50% intensity
Cold hardy
25% intensity
Thrives in temperate climates, tolerates freezing temperatures.
Low to moderate
25% intensity
Benefits from annual compost; fertilize sparingly in spring.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Cornus sericea prefers consistently moist soil. Water regularly, especially during dry periods, to maintain even moisture. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot.
Deep watering is more effective than frequent shallow watering to encourage deeper root growth.
Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. To encourage vibrant stem color, cut back old stems to the ground. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches.
Pruning helps maintain plant health and stimulates vigorous new growth.
Easily propagated from softwood cuttings taken in late spring or semi-hardwood cuttings in mid-summer. Dip cuttings in rooting hormone and plant in a moist, well-draining potting mix.
Keep cuttings consistently moist and in a warm, humid environment until they root.
Young plants may need repotting every 1-2 years into a slightly larger container. Mature plants are best planted in the ground.
When repotting, use a well-draining potting mix and ensure the root ball is handled gently to minimize transplant shock.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of American Dogwood (Cornus sericea)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cornales |
| Family | Cornaceae |
| Genus | Cornus |
| Species | Cornus sericea |
Similar in genus Cornus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
