A fine selected form of the species native to northern Europe. This upright deciduous shrub can grow to about 12 ft. tall if not pruned back. The fine, white, scented flowers are carried in loose frail-looking clusters. They are followed by blue-black fruit that look particularily fine against the red-purple autumn foliage. 'Midwinter Fire' has very bright red and yellow winter stems that seem to glow in the afternoon light. It can be cut back to the ground at winter's end to encourage long vigorous stems that give the best display.