Redtwig Dogwood

The Redtwig or Redosier Dogwood, Cornus sericea (syn. C. stolonifera) thrives in stream side environments, but it is also very adaptable to other soil types and can tolerate some drought conditions once established. Prune out the older stems to encourage the brightest red twig coloration. C. sericea Kelseyi is a smaller variety that only grows 2 or 2 1/2 feet tall.(available at the Heartsprings Nursery, this spring) The dogwood name, according to Wikipedia, might come from 'dagwood' or dagger-wood. I guess the wood of some varieties of Dogwood trees is strong enough to use for weapons. Our shrub branches are more often thought of as appropriate for basket weavers! I also found mention that the name might refer to a nasty dog smell from the cut branches- but I just did an experimental pruning and I couldn't detect a scent. Anyone heard of this before?

Red by the River

As you're traveling on Highway 97 just south of Tumalo, you'll cross the Deschutes River and view a wonderful example of native stream side plants. As the weather warms a bit and we have those first springlike days, this plant along with the native willows that often grow in similar wet habitat practically glow with red and orange colors. If the deer don't munch this shrub to bits, it'll grow 6-9 feet tall, and the red stems are a welcome sight in winter landscapes. Guess the name?