Red Twig Dogwood (Cornus sericea) 'Kelseyi' is a fantastic dogwood option for a smaller garden space. This dwarf, rounded cultivar features the same dark green foliage that turns to beautiful shades of red and purple in the fall, before falling off and revealing the famous red stems in winter. However, it should be noted that 'Kelseyi' does not produce as many of the flowers and berries as other, larger cultivars do. 'Kelseyi' works well in smaller garden beds and borders, rain gardens, shade and woodland gardens, or foundation plantings. It can also be used as a taller, more naturalistic groundcover. Any berries it produces are not fit for human consumption and should be left on the plant. Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain desired shape and the redness of the stems, which are more pronounced on new growth. It is tolerant of urban pollution.
Expected 2025 Availability- Late April
Red Twig Dogwood 'Kelseyi'
Irrigation Requirement: Moderate (1/2" every 7-10 days)
Mature Size: 2 - 3' tall and wide
Spacing: 2 - 3' apart
Bloom Colors: White
Bloom Season: June - July
Hardiness Zone: 2 - 8
Light Requirement: Full Sun, Partial Shade, or Full Shade (full sun or partial shade preferred)
Deer Resistant: Yes
Salt Tolerant: Unknown
Soils: Adaptable to a wide variety of soils, including sand, loam, or clay. Prefers fertile soils. Can tolerate wet soils.
Plants in the Cornus genus are host species for 40 known native pollinators in northern Utah. 'Kelseyi' may provide nectar and berries, but won't produce as many as the larger varieties.