Cornus stolonifera (Red Twig Dogwood)
Red Twig Dogwood is a suckering shrub grown for its beautiful bark and fast growing habit. Typically grows to 7-9 feet. Once established, the multi-stemmed Red Twig Dogwood tends to colonize areas by rapidly sending out suckers from the roots. Can spread up to 10 feet wide. With pruning, can be a wonderful rounded shrub.
Attractive red bark most noticeable when no leaves are present in winter. There are cultivars of Red Twig Dogwood that have yellow stems as well. As stems grow old and start to lose their color, simply prune them off to regenerate new stems. In the growing season leaves are a lush dark green.
Very adaptable species and survives transplanting well. Does best in moist, well-drained soil. Has the potential to be cut back to the ground every year. If planting in a landscape, mass Red Twig Dogwood together for greatest effect. Just be sure to keep an eye on them, as they do go vigorously fast and can take over a small garden rapidly.