Quick answer: Red-osier dogwood (Cornus sericea) is native to 36 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically seed, verified 16 Sep 2026.
Photo: Sulfur at en.wikipedia, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Part Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | Moist |
| Soil | Moist, well-drained soils |
| Bloom | Bloom May-Jun |
| Height | Up to 12 ft tall |
| Wildlife value | Waterfowl, marshbirds, shorebirds, and mammals major users, attracts birds/butterflies, larval host for Spring Azure |
Buying it
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (16 Sep 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: Seed via Amazon · listing verified 16 Sep 2026
See where to buy →Quick answers about Red-osier dogwood
Where is Red-osier dogwood native?
Red-osier dogwood (Cornus sericea) is native to 36 states across the Northeast, Midwest, South and West. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Red-osier dogwood bloom?
Red-osier dogwood blooms May-Jun. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Red-osier dogwood need?
Light: Part Shade. Water: Moist. Soil: Moist, well-drained soils. Mature height: Up to 12 ft tall.
Is Red-osier dogwood good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Waterfowl, marshbirds, shorebirds, and mammals major users, attracts birds/butterflies, larval host for Spring Azure.
Is Red-osier dogwood deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
Red-osier dogwood is tolerates shade.
Where can I buy real Red-osier dogwood seed or plants?
We found a listing sold as seed that names the true species, last checked 16 Sep 2026. Look for the scientific name Cornus sericea on any listing.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Red-osier dogwood.
- Bearberry Arctostaphylos uva-ursi
- Quaking aspen Populus tremuloides
- Smooth sumac Rhus glabra
- Fireweed Chamerion angustifolium
- Chokecherry Prunus virginiana
- Indiangrass Sorghastrum nutans
Also listed under
Get the full buying guide
Every pick worth knowing across pollinators, shade, drought and more, in one PDF, with the tradeoffs spelled out. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.