As winter approaches, it is a good time to observe nature and make note of plants offering winter interest.  If our entire selection was made based on spring color,  then the other seasons would be rather drab.  Two such members of interest are from the dogwood genus Cornus, consisting of the red twig dogwood (Cornus alba 'Siberica') and the yellow twig dogwood (Cornus sanguinea lutea).  These plants are very much different from the traditional flowering dogwoods we think of when referring to Cornus.  They are multi-stemmed shrubs which might grow as high as 8 feet on average in Zone 7 and parts northward.  The foliage is not generally significant.  In the summer these are your "basic bush". The "twigs" are by no means meant for specimen plantings or main focal points.  With the aid of rejuvenant pruning, the color of the bare deciduous twigs makes for quite a nice touch in the winter.

    The twig dogwoods are adaptable to a wide range of conditions, but one of their foremost functions is for use in wetland reclamation.  They can deal with swamps in sun or part shade.  They have no significant pest problems.  The "rejuvenant pruning" I referred to is the act of cutting out older main stems and allowing newer stems to replace them.  The new stems emerge in a vibrant red or gold, depending on which plant you have.  With age,  these stems will transcend into a drab gray color.  At this point,  you should take a whack at this stem in the early spring in order to make way for new, colorful growth.

    Terminology can be difficult with these plants.  The "yellow twig" is Cornus sanguinea lutea  - simple.  The Cornus sericea "red twig" may also be known as the "redosier" while the Cornus alba might be referred to as the "Siberian red twig".  Some folks feel Cornus alba covers all of these red twigs.  The yellow plant is a no brainer, but if you are looking for a red twig dogwood, then C. alba, C. sericea, "Siberian", or "Redosier" will all suit your needs.  The difference would be very difficult to determine.  If you are confused, then simply look for Cornus sanguinea 'Variegata' - it only has one name.  In closing, let me emphasize that these plants are often used in "reclamation", which would indicate that they may be a consideration for difficult areas.  Have a great week.  By the way, I'm not sure if "rejuvenant" is a legitimate term, but I think it works well.

                                                                    Andy Lynn