Description
Cornus stolonifera (Red Osier Dogwood) Seeds
Zone: 2 to 7.
Native across North America.
Also known by its synonymous botanical name Cornus sericea, the red osier dogwood is a popular ornamental shrub for its flowering but mostly for its distinctive red bark which is prominent in winter. In the wild it prefers moist soil and is common in wet areas. Foliage consists of ovate to oblong leaves that are dark green above and paler underneath. Autumn colour is an attractive reddish-purple. It bears flat-topped clusters of small white flowers in spring and followed white berry-like fruit.
The red osier dogwood is an excellent shrub for mass planting and for naturalizing landscapes. It does well in full sun or part shade.
Size: Height 6 to 10 ft; Width 6 to 10 ft.
Germination Instructions
Soak seeds for 24 hours and drain.
Stratification: Seed requires 90 days cold moist stratification at 3° C (37° F) to 5° C (41° F).
- Soak seeds in water for 24 hours.
- Place seeds in sandwich bag(s), optionally with a bit of damp sand or vermiculite to keep moist.
- Place the bag(s) with seeds in refrigerator for about 90 days.
- After the required time take the seeds out of the refrigerator and sow the seeds in pots 3/8 inch deep and cover lightly. Water gently so as not to wash away the seeds. Keep soil moist but not wet.
