The name C. sericea L. has been proposed as correct for this species, but it appears rather to match obliqua (W). As a native plant in the Ohio Valley, this widespread northern shrub ("red-osier" or "red-twig dogwood") is virtually absent south of the glacial limit, and it does not even extend south along the higher Appalachians (F, W). But, unfortunately, it is often planted as a misrepresented native across southeastern states, and it can persist or escape. In Ky. there has been some confusion with other species, and old unverified reports of stolonifera are dubious (e.g. Gm); see also CW for recent records. There are two old colls., but it is not certain that these were from native plants: H. Garman, 23 Aug 1910, from HENR (KY) with no locality; and M. Wharton #1453 from LINC (check MICH). Some large plants occur along a stream at the Avon Army Depot in FAYE (JC for KY), where they may have been planted. Naturalization from plantings is clearly evident on the Brock Farm along Townsend Cr. in BOUR. Distinction from amomum can sometimes be difficult, and introgression is possible; see Z.E. Murrell in W for modern treatment. Pith of stolonifera is usually thick and white (as used in keys by Gl, Cr and others), but this may not be a reliable character. Both stolonifera and rugosa are distinguished by relatively smooth green or reddish bark with protruding lenticels (in grey or brown patches), reddish petioles, blades with numerous veins (up to 5-9 per side) and usually axillary tufts of hairs below. C. stolonifera is not strictly stoloniferous; more often branch tips sometimes arch to the ground and root at the nodes. This species, as well as related congeners, has had much traditional use for ceremonial smoking by native people (Springer 1981; see also wikipedia). The name "kinniconnick" was used for mixtures that included these plants, and it appears to have been applied to "Kinniconnick Creek": in LEWI, where obliqua is the most likely candidate; there are also "Kinnikonnick Creeks" in Ohio and Illinois, plus allied place names further west.