Description

Hut 2 ‘Red Rover’ was selected for compactness of size (it is roughly half the height and width of the straight species). A medium-sized deciduous shrub with a vigorous, spreading habit. Twigs are purplish brown in spring, and have a distinctive brown pith, while dormant twigs are reddish purple. Medium green leaves may turn reddish purple in fall. Twigs and leaf undersides have silky hairs, thus the common name. Flat-topped clusters of creamy white flowers are followed by white berries which age to a purplish-blue. Attracts birds. Supports beneficial insects. Prefers moist soils in part shade. Tolerates close to full shade. Benefits from a 2-4” mulch which will help keep roots cool and moist in summer. Branches that touch the ground may root at the nodes, and when left alone, this shrub may spread to form thickets. Height: 4-5 ft. Spread: 4-5 ft. Family: Cornaceae Bloom time: May to June Sun: full sun to part shade Water: medium to wet Deer resistant photo credit: Proven Winners