Red-barked dogwood and Red osier dogwood are often considered for the same spot in the garden (screening, specimen, pollinator friendly). The data below shows where they differ: size, hardiness, care, toxicity and price.
Cornus alba 2.5 m × 2.5 m after 10 years
A fast, undemanding deciduous shrub grown mainly for its stems, which turn bright red in winter; it bears creamy white flower clusters in late spring,…
Cornus sericea 2.5 m × 3 m after 10 years
A vigorous, multi-stemmed shrub grown for its winter stems: bright red in the species, yellow-green in the widely sold 'Flaviramea', while the dwarf…
Red osier dogwood is cheaper: about €4.60 at the size usually planted, against about €8.40 for Red-barked dogwood.
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Feature
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Red-barked dogwood
|
Red osier dogwood
|
|---|---|---|
| Group | Shrub | Shrub |
| Size after 10 years | 2.5 m × 2.5 m | 2.5 m × 3 m |
| Ultimate size | 2.4–4 m × 1.5–4 m | 1.5–3 m × 1.5–3 m |
| Growth rate | Fast | Fast |
| Light | Full sun, Part shade | Full sun, Part shade |
| Soil | Average garden soil, Clay, Sandy, Calcareous, Acidic | Average garden soil, Clay, Calcareous |
| Hardiness | down to -40 °C (USDA 3, RHS H7) | down to -40 °C (USDA 3, RHS H7) |
| Foliage | Deciduous | Deciduous |
| Flowering | May–June, white | May–June, white |
| Water need | Medium | Medium |
| Drought tolerance | Medium | Medium |
| Maintenance | Medium | Medium |
| Planting distance | 150 cm | 150 cm |
| Typical price | approx. €8.40 | approx. €4.60 |
Prices are rounded, indicative values. Toxicity data is for information only. If your pet or child has eaten a plant, contact a vet or a doctor. Data updated: October 8, 2026
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