One of my favorite plants, this is an overall excellent plant with multiple benefits and uses. This perennial shrub is native to much of the US, including Oregon. In the wild it can be found along stream banks and other wet, riparian areas. It will tolerate harsh drought conditions, but will drop its leaves in excessive heat and come back the following spring.

In spring, the shrub is covered in flat, white sprays of flowers, followed by clusters of beautiful white berries in late summer and early fall.

The plant is covered in golden leaves in the autumn and holds its visual appeal in winter when its bright red stems stand out against the gray winter skies.

Cornus looks best when pruned hard in late winter/early spring. Be brave and prune back 24-50% of the previous year's growth to encourage new stems to form.

Cornus spreads via suckers so if this is undesirable, root prune. The shrub makes an excellent, dense hedge for screening off yard spaces, property lines, or to prevent soil erosion.

Water Use: Medium

Light Requirement: Part shade, will tolerate full sun

Soil Moisture: Damp

Soil type: Clay, loam

Soil pH: 6-8

Drought Tolerance: High

Deciduous perennial

Special attributes: Attracts beneficial insects and birds, deer resistant, tolerates boggy soil.