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Silky dogwood
Also known as: Red willow, Squawbush
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.
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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

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.
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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).
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RELATED: How to identify Silky dogwood

Care Guide for Silky dogwood

Every 1-2 weeks
Water
Full sun
Sunlight
5 - 32 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Garden Soil
Soil Type
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.
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