Tatarian dogwood : Colorful winter bark

Tartarian dogwood is often used as a border, for mass planting, screening, or as a decorative plant in gardens. It grows quickly and usually reaches a height of 3 to 10 feet. Its stems change color in late summer, turning from green to red or yellow-green.

The color becomes more vibrant in winter and then goes back to green in spring. The shrub produces white to pale berries that ripen in late summer and fall.

Some growing varieties recommended for Minnesota include 'Argenteo-marginata,' 'Bud's Yellow,' First Edition® Baton Rouge™, Ivory Halo®, and Red Gnome™. During winter, the red stems stand out against snow and evergreen trees. The red stems of First Edition® Baton Rouge™ are especially striking.

Cornus alba, a related shrub from Asia, is similar to Minnesota's native redosier dogwood (Cornus sericea). Both are known for their bright-colored bark in winter. They have similar flowers, fruit, care needs, and uses in gardens.

Tartarian dogwood is suitable for use as a border, mass planting, screen, or as a single feature plant. Its bright berries are a favorite food for songbirds. It adapts well to most planting spots but should not be planted in full shade.

In late summer, younger stems start to turn from green to shades of red or yellow-green. The color deepens during winter, and in spring, the stems return to green.

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