Tatarian Dogwood Cornus alba 'Alleman's Compact'

Names

• Family

  Cornaceae.

• Synonyms

  Tatarian Dogwood, Siberian Dogwood, Red-barked Dogwood, Siberian Redtwig Dogwood, Red Twig Dogwood.

• Common names

  Cornus alba 'Alleman's Compact'.

Toxicity

• To humans

  Red Twig Dogwood (Cornus alba) is generally considered to have a low level of toxicity to humans. Ingesting parts of the plant, particularly in large amounts, may cause mild stomach upset, but it is not typically known to cause severe poisoning or fatal reactions. However, it remains advisable to avoid consuming any part of the Red Twig Dogwood, as individual sensitivity to plants can vary. If ingestion occurs and any adverse symptoms are experienced, one should seek medical attention.

• To pets

  Red Twig Dogwood is also considered to have a low level of toxicity to pets. Similar to humans, if pets consume parts of the plant, they may experience mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea. These symptoms are generally not severe, but it's still best to prevent pets from ingesting the plant. If a pet does consume Red Twig Dogwood and displays symptoms of distress, it is recommended to consult a veterinarian.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  White

• Height

  3-4 feet (0.91-1.22 meters)

• Spread

  3-4 feet (0.91-1.22 meters)

• Plant type

  Shrub

• Hardiness zones

  2-8

• Native area

  Siberia

General Benefits

• Attractive Foliage: Cornus alba 'Alleman's Compact' or Red Twig Dogwood has variegated leaves that provide visual interest throughout the growing season.
• Winter Interest: The plant boasts bright red stems that stand out against snowy landscapes, adding color to winter gardens.
• Erosion Control: With its dense foliage and root system, it helps prevent soil erosion in landscaped areas.
• Wildlife Habitat: It provides shelter and nesting sites for birds, while its berries serve as a food source.
• Low Maintenance: Red Twig Dogwood is easy to care for and requires minimal upkeep once established.
• Durable: It is hardy and able to withstand cold temperatures, making it suitable for a variety of climates.
• Versatility: The plant can be used in a wide range of landscape designs, including borders, mass plantings, and as a focal point.
• Tolerant of Various Soils: It can thrive in different soil types, although it prefers moist, well-drained ground.

Medical Properties

This plant is not used for medical purposes.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Cornus alba 'Alleman's Compact', commonly known as Tatarian dogwood, can be used for natural dye production, as the bark and leaves may produce varying shades depending on the mordant used.
• Its branches can be harvested in winter for decorative purposes in floral arrangements due to their striking red color that stands out against drab winter scenery.
• The shrub can be utilized in land reclamation projects since it can withstand challenging soil conditions and helps stabilize the soil with its dense root system.
• The plant can be used in noise reduction barriers as part of a dense planting scheme to absorb and diffuse sound pollution.
• Tatarian dogwood is sometimes incorporated into windbreaks or shelterbelts to protect more wind-sensitive plants and reduce soil erosion.
• Its dense foliage provides shelter and habitat for local wildlife, particularly birds that might nest within its branches.
• The plant can be used as a natural screen or privacy hedge due to its bushy growth habit, which creates a visual barrier between properties.
• Its vibrant fall foliage can be used as a natural indicator of seasonal change in educational settings, such as schools or nature centers.
• The species can be employed in the practice of coppicing, a traditional method of woodland management that involves repeatedly cutting back trees or shrubs to ground level to harvest shoots.
• Young, flexible stems of Tatarian dogwood may be used for basket-weaving or crafting due to their strength and pliability when soaked.

Feng Shui

The Red Twig Dogwood is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Red Twig Dogwood is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Stability and Hope: The robust nature of the Tatarian Dogwood, which is steadfast throughout the seasons, symbolizes stability and hope in enduring the cyclical changes in life.
• Purity and Innocence: The pristine white blooms that appear in spring can symbolize purity and innocence, suggesting a fresh start or clean slate.
• Energy and Vitality: This plant's vigorous growth and ability to thrive in various conditions represent energy and vitality, an encouragement for resilience and dynamic living.
• Renaissance and New Beginnings: Like many plants that burst into bloom after a period of dormancy, the Tatarian Dogwood's cycle of renewal stands for renaissance and the emergence of new beginnings.