Height40-60cm

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Deciduous suckering shrub prized for its vivid bright crimson-red winter stems (among the strongest of hardy dogwoods), green leaves that turn reddish-purple in autumn, small creamy-white spring/summer flowers, and occasional blue-white berries.

Fully hardy, tough, adaptable, low-maintenance once established, good for wildlife, mass planting, informal hedges or winter borders. Height/spread typically 1.5–2.5 m (kept smaller by pruning).

Planting tips

• When: Bare-root Nov–March. 
• Site: Full sun (best stem colour) to partial shade; tolerates exposed or sheltered positions.
• Soil: Most types (clay, loam, sand); prefers moist but well-drained; thrives in damp/heavy soils and tolerates a range of pH (acid–neutral preferred).
• How: Dig hole twice as wide as root, same depth; plant at previous soil level; backfill (optional light compost/manure mix); firm and water thoroughly. Mulch 5–8 cm, keeping clear of stems. No staking needed. Space 50–90 cm (or 1–1.5 m) apart for groups/impact. 
• Aftercare: Water regularly in first 1–2 years, especially dry spells. Once established, minimal watering needed. Leave unpruned first year; thereafter coppice hard to 5–15 cm in March for brightest young stems. Mulch annually after pruning.

Generally pest-free and easy in UK conditions.