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Cornus sericea

redosier dogwood
Family: Cornaceae • Genus: Cornus • Region: NORTHERN AMERICA: Canada, Yukon, Québec, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Saskatchewan, Alberta, Manitoba, British Columbia, United States, Alaska, Connecticut, Indiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey (north), New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, llinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington, Wyoming, Maryland, Virginia (north), New Mexico, Arizona, California, Nevada, Utah, Mexico, Chihuahua, Durango, Nuevo León

Summary: Cornus sericea (redosier dogwood) is a plant in the Cornaceae family. Verdica documents 0 traditional uses, 0 phytochemical compounds, and 0 herb-drug interactions for this species.

⚠ Toxicity Warning: This species has documented toxicity concerns. Do not consume without expert guidance.
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About Cornus sericea

Red osier is a common ornamental garden plant with its deep red stems giving interest in the winter. It has potential as a fodder plant and as an industrial biomass crop. It makes an excellent hedge and provides effective erosion control on banks and slopes. It can grow in many different conditions, including wet soil. It is a fast-growing deciduous shrub to 2.5m (8ft) in full sun and semi-shade (light woodland). The fruit is eaten raw or cooked. It is juicy but bitter and unpalatable for many people. Native North Americans mix it with other fruits such as Juneberries (Amelanchier spp) and then dry it for winter use. Red osier was widely employed by several native North American Indian tribes who valued it especially for its astringent and tonic bark, using it both internally and externally to treat diarrhoea, fevers, skin problems etc. It is little used in modern herbalism. The cultivar ‘Flaviramea’ has been recommended. Berries are produced in the summer. Red osier is noted as a good Carbon Farming Solution plant. It can be coppiced, used as fodder and act as a living fence. It is a industrial biomass crop.

Care Information

SunlightFull sun
WateringHigh — needs consistently wet conditions
SoilMoist, clay, acidic, alkaline
Hardiness ZoneUSDA 2-7

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Disclaimer: The statements on this page regarding traditional uses of plants have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Traditional use information is presented for educational and historical reference purposes only, reflecting documented ethnobotanical practices. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal preparation, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have any medical condition. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 (US) or your local emergency number immediately.

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