Common Dogwood
cornus sanguinea
Also known as: ["Bloodtwig Dogwood","Redtwig Dogwood"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to Europe, valued for its vibrant red winter stems and small white flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["seasonal color change","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Cornales |
| Family: | Cornaceae |
| Genus: | Cornus |
| Botanical Name: | Cornus sanguinea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: mixed borders, woodland edges, or as a specimen shrub in garden beds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Moderate to well-draining. Avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter. Tolerates clay but prefers improved drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy. Remove up to one-third of the oldest stems each year.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates more shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun if moved from shade. Protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates. Indoor plants need bright, indirect light if grown inside.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near heat sources.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep roots; avoid waterlogging; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings.
Soil
moist, well-drained, fertile soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Mulch to retain moisture; avoid compacting soil; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 4–8. Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates winter cold but benefits from protection in extreme heat.
Protect from late spring frosts; water early to avoid heat stress; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
annually in early spring with balanced slow-release fertilizer
Avoid over-fertilizing, which can harm roots; fertilize before new growth emerges; stop fertilizing in late summer to avoid tender growth.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings in early summer or hardwood cuttings in late winter/early spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Keep warm and bright.
Best Time: Early summer for softwood cuttings; late winter for hardwood cuttings.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for better success rates.
Timeline
Softwood cuttings root in 4–8 weeks; hardwood cuttings may take 2–3 months to root and establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bags or propagator, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, clean tools; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to ground level or just above a healthy bud. Thin out crowded branches to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Renewal pruning to maintain vigor and encourage colorful stems. Remove old or weak growth to promote new, vibrant stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; cut at a 45-degree angle; remove dead/diseased wood; clean up debris after pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late winter or early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter if repotting is necessary.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil mix; ensure pot has drainage holes; trim roots if pot-bound; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Not typically needed unless grown in containers. In-ground plants rarely require repotting.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare new soil mix; gently remove plant; trim roots if needed; replant at same depth.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during spring and summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve structure and fertility. Incorporate sand or perlite to enhance drainage in heavy soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf scorch in excessive heat; dieback or delayed bud break in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause dieback of stems and delayed spring growth, especially in young or newly planted specimens.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in winter; protect from harsh winds; avoid planting in frost pockets.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering. Stems may become brittle.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering during heatwaves; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in early spring; avoid late-season feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Apply a light dose of liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season if needed.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCornus sanguinea berries are considered slightly toxic to cats. The tannins in the berries can lead to mild gastrointestinal distress in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Cornus sanguinea can be slightly toxic to dogs if ingested. The toxicity is primarily due to the presence of tannins, which can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCornus sanguinea, commonly known as bloodtwig dogwood, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingestion of large quantities of its berries may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to their high tannin content.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cornus sanguinea toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Why are the leaves turning yellow?
A: Yellow leaves may indicate overwatering, poor drainage, or nutrient deficiency.
Q: Does Cornus sanguinea attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its flowers and berries.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cornaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
