Cornus stolonifera 'Flaviramea'

Yellowtwig Dogwood
Cornaceae
Deciduous, Shrubs

CORNUS

All dogwoods offer attractive foliage and blossoms; some have spectacular fruit or winter bark. Leaves of many types turn brilliant colors in fall. What appear to be flower petals in many dogwoods are actually bracts—petal-like modified leaves. These surround the inconspicuous true flowers.

Cornus stolonifera

Grown for brilliant red fall foliage and winter twigs; too should be cut back severely in late dormant season. Native to moist places, Northern California to Alaska and eastward. Thrives not only in the coldest mountain areas of West but also throughout California—even in intermediate valleys of Southern California if given frequent water.

Grows rapidly to form a multistemmed shrub 7—9 ft. high; spreads to 12 ft. or wider by creeping underground stems and rooting branches. Oval, 1 1/2—2 1/2-in.-long, fresh deep green leaves. Small, creamy white flowers in 2-in. clusters appear among leaves throughout summer; white or bluish fruits follow.

Use as a space filler on moist ground (good for holding banks) or plant along property line as a screen. Shade tolerant. To control spread, use a spade to cut off roots; also trim branches that touch ground.

'Flaviramea'

Yellow twigs and branches.