Cornus sanguinea Arctic Sun® (Bloodtwig Dogwood)

Cornus sanguinea ‘Cato’, commonly known as Arctic Sun Dogwood, is a deciduous shrub renowned for its stunning yellow to coral-orange stems, providing visual interest, particularly during winter when the leaves have fallen off.

Cornus sanguinea Arctic Sun: An In-depth Look

Native: This cultivar is a variant of Cornus sanguinea, which is native to Europe and Western Asia.

Plant Type and Habit: It’s a deciduous shrub with a compact, bushy growth habit. The plant is known for its multi-stemmed architecture.

Size: Arctic Sun generally reaches a height and spread of 3-4 feet (90-120 cm), making it more compact than some other dogwood varieties

Flowers: The shrub produces clusters of small, creamy-white flowers in late spring to early summer, offering a brief but delightful show.

Foliage: The leaves are ovate and green during the growing season and turn golden yellow in the fall, enhancing its multi-season appeal.

Hardiness: It’s hardy in USDA zones 4 through 7, capable of withstanding winter temperatures and variable growing conditions.

Uses: Arctic Sun is popular in landscape design for its winter interest. It is commonly used in borders, as specimen plants or informal hedge, and in mass plantings. It can also be used for erosion control on banks and slopes.

 Wildlife: The flowers attract pollinators like butterflies, while the berries can be a food source for birds.

Deer and Rabbits: While not completely deer-resistant, Arctic Sun is less palatable to deer than other plants. Rabbits may also nibble on the stems, but less so than on other garden plants.

Toxicity: The plant is generally considered non-toxic to humans and pets, although ingestion of large quantities is not recommended.

Invasiveness: Cornus Arctic Sun is not considered invasive. It is a more compact variety and does not tend to spread aggressively.

Benefits: The multi-season interest — colorful stems in winter, flowers in spring, and attractive foliage in summer and fall — make Arctic Sun an all-round performer in the garden. Its relatively compact size also makes it versatile for smaller spaces.

How to Grow and Care for Bloodtwig Dogwood

Light: Prefers full sun to partial shade; brighter light enhances stem color.

Soil: Adaptable to a variety of soil types but prefers well-drained, moderately fertile soil.

Water: Keep soil consistently moist, especially for newly planted shrubs.

Fertilizer: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilization to prevent leggy growth.

Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring, removing about a third of the oldest stems to encourage new growth and vibrant stem color.

Propagation: Can be propagated through hardwood cuttings in winter or softwood cuttings in summer.

Pests and Diseases: Generally resilient; susceptible to dogwood sawfly and scale. Potential diseases include leaf spot, canker, and root rot; monitor and treat as needed.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure that your Cornus sanguinea maintains its striking appearance and health, becoming a focal point in your garden especially during the winter months.