Silky Dogwood

Silky Dogwood (Cornus amomum)

Silky Dogwood (Cornus amomum) is a hardy, moisture-loving native shrub that provides multi-season interest and essential habitat value. With its showy clusters of creamy white flowers, attractive bluish fruit, and deep red stems in winter, it serves as both a landscape workhorse and a striking ornamental in naturalistic plantings.

Distinctive Features

This multi-stemmed deciduous shrub grows 6 to 10 feet tall and wide, forming a dense thicket over time. Soft green leaves turn reddish-purple in fall, while flat-topped white flower clusters bloom in late spring to early summer. These are followed by striking blue drupes that ripen in late summer and are quickly consumed by birds. In winter, the stems reveal a reddish to purplish hue, adding off-season color and structure.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Moist to wet soils; tolerates poorly drained or clay conditions
• Water: High; thrives in consistently damp environments
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4�8

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Flower and fruit display create standout seasonal moments
• Rain Gardens: Excellent choice for wet or low-lying areas
• Streambanks and Wetlands: Helps control erosion and stabilize soil
• Naturalized Plantings: Fits seamlessly into native and restoration landscapes
• Wildlife Gardens: Provides nectar, fruit, and shelter for birds and pollinators

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Prefers consistently moist soil; does not tolerate prolonged drought
• Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to control size or rejuvenate growth
• Fertilizing: Not usually necessary; optional compost application in spring
• Mulching: Maintain a thick mulch layer to retain soil moisture
• Protection: May spread by suckers; allow space or manage accordingly

Why Choose Silky Dogwood?

• Native Reliability: Thrives in wet conditions where many shrubs struggle
• Wildlife Magnet: Supports birds, butterflies, and beneficial insects
• Seasonal Interest: Spring flowers, summer berries, and winter stem color
• Erosion Control: Dense roots and stems help stabilize streambanks and slopes
• Focal Point: Excellent choice for water�s edge gardens or native rain garden displays

Cornus amomum is a resilient, habitat-friendly native that combines functionality and beauty, making it an excellent focal point in rain gardens, riparian zones, and natural landscapes.