Cornus sanguinea ‘Winter Flame’ (Bloodtwig Dogwood)

Cornus sanguinea ‘Winter Flame’, commonly known as Winter Flame Dogwood, is a deciduous shrub that is admired for its brightly colored stems, which transition from yellow at the base to orange and finally to a fiery red at the tips. This dramatic coloration adds spectacular winter interest to the landscape.

Cornus sanguinea ‘Winter Flame’: An In-depth Look

Native: Winter Flame is a cultivar of Cornus sanguinea, which is native to Europe and parts of Western Asia.

Plant Type and Habit: It is a multi-stemmed, deciduous shrub with an upright and somewhat spreading habit, making it ideal for mass plantings or as a standalone specimen.

Size: This dogwood typically reaches a height and spread of 8-10 feet (240-300 cm), although it can be kept smaller with pruning.

Flowers: The shrub produces clusters of small, cream-white flowers that are not particularly showy but are attractive to pollinators. The flowering period is generally from late spring to early summer.

Foliage: The leaves are ovate, medium to dark green in color, and may exhibit autumn colors ranging from yellow to red before falling off.

Hardiness: Cornus sanguinea ‘Winter Flame’ is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8, making it quite resilient to varying weather conditions, including cold winters.

Uses: Due to its brilliant winter stem color, it is often used for winter interest in borders, in mass plantings, or as an accent plant. It is also useful for erosion control on slopes and banks. Great for both fresh and dried flower arrangements.

 Wildlife: The modest flowers attract butterflies and other pollinators, and the berries that sometimes follow are a food source for birds.

Deer and Rabbits: The plant is somewhat resistant to deer, although not completely deer-proof. Rabbits may browse young shoots, but mature plants are generally less affected.

Toxicity: Cornus sanguinea ‘Winter Flame’ is generally considered non-toxic to humans and pets, but ingesting large amounts may cause stomach upset.

Invasiveness: Cornus ‘Winter Flame’ is not considered invasive.

Benefits: Its main benefits include its striking winter stem color and multi-season interest, from flowers in the spring to attractive foliage in the summer and fall.

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.