Red twig dogwood

Cornus sericea L.

Pet & Human Safety

People: Not researchedPets: Not on the ASPCA lists as we read them

Hazardous parts

Not yet checked.

Preparation

n/a

Hazard type

Not yet checked.

Hazard route

Not yet checked.

How complete this information is

We have not researched the safety of this plant yet.

Toxic to pets

No ASPCA entry found.

Dogs, cats, horses: no source makes a pet toxicity statement.

PlotAndPetal cannot tell you whether a plant you found can be eaten. Only someone who can see the plant can identify it.

Poison control

If someone has collapsed, cannot be woken, is having a seizure or has trouble breathing, call 911 now. For any other possible poisoning, call Poison Help: 1-800-222-1222.

Emergency number source: U.S. federal law (47 U.S.C. § 251(e)(3)), read 2026-10-07.

Naturalist Lore

Historical Background & Breeding Lore

The history of this plant and its name, and how it was bred, where we have them.

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Care

Hardiness zones: USDA 2a to 7b per NC State Plant Toolbox; USDA 2 to 7 per University of Minnesota Extension
Light: Full sun to part shade; part shade is easier in hot southern summers.
Water needs: high
Mature size: NC State: 5 to 9 ft (1.5 to 2.7 m) tall and 5 to 10 ft (1.5 to 3 m) wide; its description says 6 to 9 ft. University of Minnesota: 2 to 10 ft (0.6 to 3 m) tall and wide, fast growing. Varieties differ, for example a compact variety is 6 ft by 10 ft.
Family: Cornaceae (NC State)
Where it comes from: NC State: native across most of North America, including Canada (all provinces from British Columbia to Newfoundland), Mexico and most US states; introduced in parts of Europe including Great Britain.