Plant Profile: Cornus sanguinea

This plant readily produces suckers, allowing it to establish a dense, multi-stemmed colony. While it may not be ideal as a standalone specimen, it thrives in mass plantings. Its fibrous root system makes it easy to transplant, and it adapts well to various soil types, although it prefers well-drained soil in partial shade. The striking red twigs add visual interest during the winter months.

**Seasons of Interest:**
- **Foliage:** Fall
- **Bloom:** Early Summer
- **Fruit:** Summer to Fall, featuring red berries
- **Twigs:** Winter

**Insects, Diseases, and Other Issues:**
The flowering dogwood is prone to numerous diseases, particularly when under stress, with dogwood anthracnose being the most severe. This disease has significantly impacted areas in the eastern United States. Additionally, the plant can suffer from powdery mildew, leaf spot, canker, root rot, and blight affecting leaves and twigs. Stressed trees may also attract borers, while leaf miners and scale pose less serious threats. Furthermore, white-tailed deer may browse on the foliage.