Silky Dogwood - Cornus amomum

The Silky Dogwood (Cornus amomum) is native to the central and eastern regions of the United States. In natural ecosystems, it can be found in wetlands, near bodies of water, and on swampland borders. It is deciduous growing up to a medium or large sized shrub. It is a multi-stemmed shrub, growing as tall as 12 ft in height. It gets its common name from the soft pubescence present on the young stems and leaves of the plant. The leaves are lush and bright green, giving way to a vibrant yellow transition in the autumn. The twigs have a strikingly dark red bark, which contrasts pleasantly with this shrub’s bright green foliage.

In the spring, flowers form in clusters (cymes) leading to dark blue fruit in early autumn. The flower buds are creamy white in color. Once bloomed, the interior of the four opened petals is bright white. The flowers are modest yet charming and the dark blue clusters of drupes that follow create a vibrant contrast before the leaves senesce. This shrub is a particular favorite for birds because of its prolific fruiting.

Plant this the Silky Dogwood in an area of the garden that tends to hold moisture, such as a pond or stream bank. It makes a delightful addition to woodland borders and can also be useful for erosion control on a wet hillside.

This plant is easy to grow and does not have any serious pest or disease issues, however some individuals can be susceptible to scale. It prefers acidic soils of medium to wet moisture however they must be well-drained.

As it naturally grows within canopies, it does well in partial shade, however full sun is also suitable. During the summer, the roots require cool and moist conditions so it is recommended to apply a layer of mulch to individuals planted in sunny locations.

Plant Details - Silky Dogwood

Family: Cornaceae

Hardiness Zones: 4 - 8

Light Requirement: Full sun to partial shade

Water Needs: Moderate to high

Height: 6 - 10 ft

Spread: 6 - 10 ft

Growth Rate: Fast

Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer

Flower Color: Creamy white

Wildlife Value: Flowers attract pollinators, blue drupes are eaten by birds and mammals

Landscape Uses and Maintenance 

Easy to grow, suitable in wet soils, attractive to wildlife.

Noteworthy Characteristics

Add this delightful native to your rain garden or pond edge and enjoy the flurry of pollinators and wildlife that come to partake in its flowers and fruit. Shop for Silky Dogwood shrubs online at TN Nursery. For 68 years, we have served the landscaping industry and homeowners with specimen plants.

This Is How Your Plants Will Look upon Delivery

Bloom Season

Spring

Bloom/Foliage Color

White

Height at Maturity

Over 10 Feet

Care

Silky Dogwood thrives in well-drained soil and benefits from regular watering, especially during dry spells. Trim in winter or early spring to preserve shape and remove dead or damaged branches. Mulch near the ground to maintain moisture and suppress weeds.

Plant Reproduction

Silky Dogwood spreads through suckering, forming clonal clusters and root sprouts

Plant bare-root shrubs during the more excellent spring or fall months, from November through April. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root system and slightly more profound than its height. Position the shrub so that the top of the roots is level with the ground, and put back the soil dug over the roots. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds, ensuring the mulch does not touch the shrub's stem. Water regularly, especially during the first year, to establish strong roots. Prune shrubs as needed to promote healthy growth. In the spring, fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer suited to the specific needs of the shrub.

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