Looking for a fast-growing, versatile shrub that will add color and interest to your landscape year-round? Look no further than the Cornus alba var. Sibirica Tatarian Dogwood! With its stunning coral red stems and bluish fruits, this cultivar is particularly showy in the winter months, especially when there's snow on the ground. But don't think that means this shrub is a one-season wonder - tiny yellowish-white flowers in late spring give way to attractive clusters of bluish-white drupes in summer, which are a hit with local birds. And speaking of birds, this shrub is an ideal choice for anyone looking to attract more feathered friends to their yard.
The Tatarian dogwood is a medium-sized, multi-stemmed, deciduous shrub that typically reaches a maximum height of 4-7 feet tall. It can be planted in both full sun or partial shade, and is adaptable to a variety of soil conditions, including wet soils and poor soils. It is propagated primarily by rooted stem cuttings, and is available in both container and ball-and-burlap forms.
While the Tatarian dogwood is a fast grower and can make for excellent mass or group plantings, borders, and foundations, it is important to note that it does have a few liabilities. It is part of the Dogwood family, which means it can be susceptible to a handful of serious disease and pest problems, such as crown and stem canker, twig blight, and leaf spot, as well as borers and scale. As such, it is important to keep an eye out for any signs of decline in vigor, and to regularly thin or rejuvenation prune the shrub to promote air circulation, compactness, and healthy growth.
Overall, the Tatarian dogwood is an excellent choice for anyone looking to add a touch of color and interest to their yard, no matter the season. So why wait? Add one to your landscape today and watch as it dazzles year-round!