"The Redosier Dogwood, Cornus sericea, is a freely spreading shrub with many stems, 3-18' tall; branching is opposite, young stems (and most old ones) often bright, smooth, shiny red. Leaves are opposite, deciduous, oval 5-10 cm long. White threads run through the veins toewards the leaf tip. Fruits are white, berry-like drupes, 7-9 mm long. This plant brightens up a winter landscape. Shade tolerant; provides cover and food for wildlife and birds. It is adapted to both wet and dry sites and a variety of soil types."