Red-Osier Dogwood is an upright, red-stemmed shrub that spreads by suckering into a small thicket. If not desired, suckers can be pruned, and the height can be pruned as well in late winter if needed. It is often planted in urban areas as it is tolerant of all kinds of soil types, although it prefers slightly wetter soils. It does well in areas that are flooded in spring. Small white umbrella-shaped flowers give way to white drupes in fall which are enjoyed by many birds. Dark green leaves grow on the beautiful red stems and these leaves turn a red shading to purple in the fall. In the winter, the red stems of Red Osier Dogwood are sometimes the only colour to be found in the landscape, where they show up bright red against the snow. It gives habitat and food to many small birds and animals.