green osier

Also known as: pagoda dogwood

A large, deciduous shrub or small, graceful tree with an arching habit up to 6m in height. Glossy, purple-green stems hold alternate, dark green, ovate leaves that turn a deep purple burgundy-red in autumn. From late spring to summer, lacy white, lightly fragrant flower heads are held above the leaves. Dark blue fruits follow in summer and are soon taken by birds.

Scientific classification

Species: green osier (Cornus alternifolia)
Genus: Cornus
Family: Cornaceae

Information to be completed
Toxicity: Shrubs · Trees
Plant type: 4-8 metres
Height: 4-8 metres
Spread: Deciduous
Foliage: Columnar upright
Habit: Autumn · Summer · Spring
Season of interest: Partial shade · Full sun
Sunlight: Information to be completed
Ideal temperature

green osier pictures

Distribution of green osier

Distribution map

Eastern Northern America

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Culture

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Toxicity

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Quick identification of green osier

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green osier care guide

Deep watering during dry spells, allowing slight surface drying between soakings
Watering: Partial shade · Full sun
Sunlight: Information to be completed
Ideal temperature

Watering

Deep watering during dry spells, allowing slight surface drying between soakings

Fertilizing

Balanced shrub or tree feed once each early spring

Pruning

Little pruning is needed. Remove diseased, damaged, crowded or crossing shoots and unwanted growth. Timing depends on the plant: generally late winter or early spring; plants prone to bleeding and deciduous magnolias need different timing, and deciduous azaleas and lilacs are pruned after flowering.

Propagation

Propagate by hardwood cuttings, grafting, seed.

Growing

Favours a woodland situation, but also full sun. Grow in fertile, humus rich, moist, acid soil which does not dry out. For more advice, see flowering dogwood cultivation

More growing and care information →