Description
Cornus racemosa ‘Irish Setter’, commonly known as Red Stem Dogwood, is a striking deciduous shrub valued for its vibrant red stems that provide winter interest and a bold splash of color in the landscape. Native to eastern North America, this dogwood species typically grows 6 to 8 feet tall and wide, featuring ovate green leaves that turn reddish-purple in fall. In late spring to early summer, it produces creamy white, clustered flowers that attract pollinators, followed by small bluish-black berries enjoyed by birds, contributing to wildlife support. Its natural adaptability to a range of soil types and tolerance for partial shade to full sun make it a versatile choice for woodland gardens, borders, and naturalized areas. The ‘Irish Setter’ cultivar is particularly noted for its enhanced stem color intensity compared to species-type dogwoods, making it a popular selection for ornamental winter interest. This cultivar’s combination of year-round aesthetic appeal and ecological benefits exemplifies the value of native plants in sustainable landscaping.