A shrub known for its bright red stems, especially on new growth, which are prominent in winter. It features pointed, oval, opposite leaves that turn red-purple in the fall, small white-to-cream flowers in spring, and clusters of white or bluish-white berries in late summer and fall. This adaptable plant tolerates a range of conditions, preferring moist to wet soils but also growing in full sun to shade, and is valuable for its wildlife benefits, soil stabilization, and use as an ornamental plant.