Red-Osier Dogwood (Cornus stolonifera)

Live stakes ready to go in the ground

Fascines just starting to sprout

Here is a little info about one of the plants that has been used extensively in this year's restoration site. 

The fascines have already started to flower.

General Information: In general, Red Osier Dogwood is a spreading shrub that grows 3’ to 18’ tall. The branches are opposite and mostly red, getting even brighter after a frost. The leaves are opposite and oval shaped with obvious parallel veins. Its flowers are white or slightly green, growing in dense clusters. It produces small berries that are bitter and generally inedible. Branches were traditionally used as salmon spreaders and basket rims. It is also an important winter browse for moose, deer and elk.

Site Specific Information: This year’s restoration ecology students used Red Osier Dogwood to help stabilize the steep slopes found in the restoration site. They planted some live cuttings at the top of the slopes, while the other live cuttings were tied in bundles called fascines. The fascines were then placed horizontally across the slope and slightly buried. Over time, the dogwood sprouted and grew roots, which naturally help stabilize the slope.

References: The Starflower Foundation and Plants of the Pacific Northwest Coast, by Jim Pojar and Andy MacKinnon.