Special characteristics of the red dogwood
Cornus sanguinea is characterised by its versatility and adaptability. It is a deciduous shrub that can reach a height of 3 to 4.5 metres. Its leaves turn a bright red or orange in autumn, giving the garden a spectacular variety of colours at this time of year. In spring and summer, the red dogwood produces small white flowers that attract butterflies and bees. In autumn, the plants bear dark purple, almost black berries, which are a valuable food for birds.
Location and soil requirements
The red dogwood is extremely undemanding and grows in both sunny and semi-shady locations. It is not fussy about the soil and thrives in almost all soils as long as they are not too dry or too wet. However, it prefers moist, humus-rich soil and is very tolerant of wind and frost, making it an ideal choice for different climate zones.
Planting Cornus sanguinea as a rooted plant (bare root)
The rooted plants are supplied without a root ball, i.e. bare root, which makes shipping easier and the plant easier to handle. The best time for planting is late autumn to spring, when the plant is in its dormant phase. Before planting, the root should be soaked in water for a few hours. The hole for the plant should be deep enough to generously cover the roots. A layer of mulch can help to retain moisture in the soil and promote growth.
Ideal planting partners for the Cornus sanguinea
The red dogwood combines excellently with other shrubs and perennials. Planting partners such as raspberry (Rubus idaeus) or elderberry (Sambucus nigra) not only complement the dogwood visually, but also create a biodiverse environment that is attractive to numerous insects and birds. Cornus sanguinea also comes into its own in combination with perennials such as autumn anemone or cranesbill.
Care and pruning
Cornus sanguinea is easy to care for and requires little attention. To keep the plant in shape and promote growth, it can be pruned regularly in spring. This involves cutting back older shoots to make room for new shoots, which develop their characteristic red-brown colour in winter.
Cornus sanguinea is an excellent choice for gardens looking for both aesthetic enrichment and ecological added value. As a bare-root plant, it is easy to transport and inexpensive to buy, making it particularly attractive for garden enthusiasts.
