Cornus stolonifera 'Arctic Fire Red'

Cornus stolonifera 'Arctic Fire® Red': Dwarf Dogwood, Blazing Stems

Compact in form but bold in impact, 'Arctic Fire® Red' delivers intense red winter stems on a dwarf red-osier dogwood. This Proven Winners® introduction brings four-season beauty to the landscape, with clean green foliage in summer, creamy white spring flowers, and dark red stems that blaze through winter. Perfect for foundation plantings, winter groupings, and small-space borders where full-size dogwoods won’t fit.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 90–120 cm (3–4 ft)
• Spread: 90–120 cm (3–4 ft)
• Flower Colour: White
• Flowering Period: Late spring
• Foliage: Medium green; turns burgundy in fall
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun to part shade
• Soil Requirements: Moist to average soils; tolerant of wet and clay sites

Uses and Benefits: 'Arctic Fire® Red' is ideal for low hedges, mass plantings, rain gardens, and winter-focused displays. Its compact size eliminates the need for regular pruning while maintaining the dramatic stem colour red-twig dogwoods are known for. Excellent wildlife value, erosion control, and year-round texture.

Care Instructions: Plant in full sun for the most vibrant stem colour. Cut back one-third of the oldest stems in early spring to encourage fresh, brightly coloured growth. Tolerates wet soils, deer, and cold climates with ease.

History: Introduced by Proven Winners®, 'Arctic Fire® Red' was selected for its compact size and exceptional winter stem colour, offering the appeal of native red-osier dogwood in a landscape-friendly form.

Final Thoughts: Bold, compact, and cold-hardy, 'Arctic Fire® Red' brings four-season structure and winter brilliance to the modern northern garden.