Silky dogwood (*Cornus amomum*) is a deciduous shrub native to eastern North America. Underneath the leaves and twigs, you’ll find silky hairs—hence the name. Native Americans referred to it as 'kinnikinnick,' which means 'smoking mixture,' because they smoked it like tobacco. White flowers bloom forth in the spring. They are followed by blue fruit that birds love to snack on.
Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.
Download the App for Free
Perennial
Lifespan
Shrub
Plant Type
Spring, Summer
Bloom Time
Summer, Fall
Harvest Time
5 m
Plant Height
2.5 m to 5 m
Spread
Green
Leaf Color
3 mm to 5 mm
Flower Size
Blue, White
Fruit Color
White, Yellow
Flower Color
Brown, Green, Red, Purple, Burgundy, Lavender
Stem Color
Winter dormancy
Dormancy
On This Page
Images
Attributes
Culture
Quickly Identify
Care Guide
FAQs
Common Diseases
Images of Silky dogwood
Attributes of Silky dogwood
Growth Rate
In the active growing seasons of Spring and Summer, silky dogwood displays a moderate growth rate. This controlled speed results in steady leaf production and gradual height increase, ensuring homogenous growth. The plant may witness rapid growth spurts when optimal conditions are met but generally maintains a moderate pace. This growth regimen contributes to its resilience and adaptability, allowing it to flourish in a variety of environments.
Culture
Garden Use
Silky dogwood is a popular shrub prized for its white flowers in the spring and burgundy foliage in the fall. It is commonly used as a focal point in gardens or as a natural privacy fence when planted close together. It is an essential plant in bee and butterfly gardens. Plant it with willows for texture and varying canopies.
Symbolism
Wishes, Protection. This tree symbolizes charm and finesse.
Name Story
Silky dogwood: Silky dogwood is named for its silky gray hairs that cover the undersides of leaves and twigs, which turn purplish in spring and reddish-brown in autumn. The appearance of these silky hairs makes the identification of silky dogwood fairly easy.
Get quick plant knowledge with a snap
Snap a photo for instant plant identification and learn about its name, symbolism, interesting facts, uses, and more.
Download the App for Free
Quickly Identify Silky dogwood
1
Greenish-purple to dark reddish-purple young twigs with fine hairs.
2
Creamy white flower clusters in flat-topped cymes up to 2.5 inches (6.35 cm).
3
Dark purple mature branches with vertical brown lenticels.
4
Elliptical to ovate leaves measuring 2 to 3.5 inches (5 to 9 cm) long.
5
Petite spherical drupes maturing from white to dark blue, approximately 1/4 inch (6 mm).
Identify plants with a snap
Instantly identify plants with AI: Snap a photo, and get accurate results within seconds.
Water:
Silky dogwood prefers moist environments, thriving near water sources. It needs watering every 1-2 weeks to stay healthy. As a deciduous plant, silky dogwood sheds leaves during dormancy to conserve water, making it suitable for indoor and outdoor settings.
Fertilize:
For optimal health, silky dogwood needs balanced nutrition with high nitrogen fertilizers during growth. Apply a 10-10-10 NPK formula in early spring and increase frequency to every 4-6 weeks in summer. Use about 1 pound per 100 square feet, and water thoroughly after fertilizing to prevent root burn.
Pruning:
Prune silky dogwood in early spring to enhance growth and flowering. Key techniques involve removing dead wood, thinning for air circulation, and shaping. Regular pruning prevents pests and promotes a vigorous plant. Refer to resources like the USDA for tailored advice.
Propagation:
Silky dogwood, a native shrub to North American wetlands, prefers moist soil and partial shade. Propagate using softwood cuttings, rooting hormone, and a peat-perlite mix. Ensure consistent moisture and warmth for rooting, while balancing sunlight and shade for healthy new growth.
Repotting:
Repot silky dogwood every 2-3 years in early spring, using a container slightly larger than the root ball. After repotting, provide regular watering and partial sunlight. Ensure soil remains moist for optimal health.
Get tips and tricks for your plants.
Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.