Silky Dogwood

Cornus amomum

Summary

Also known as swamp dogwood, this moisture-loving deciduous shrub is a great choice for those wet areas in the landscape. The common name derives from the leaves and twigs, which  have silky hairs, and its long, arching stems will root where they touch the ground. Clusters of creamy white flowers bloom in the spring followed by blue fruits (drupes) that ripen in late summer, and are attractive against the purplish fall foliage.

More Details

FAMILY

Cornaceae (Dogwood)

BLOOM TIME

May-June

FLOWER

White

MATURE SIZE

6-12 feet

LIGHT REQUIREMENT

Full sun to part shade

SOIL CONDITIONS

Average to moist soils

NATIVE STATUS

PA Native

Ecosystem Connections

Dogwoods are larval food plants for several groups of butterflies and moths, including the spring azure, dogwood thyatirid, one-spotted variant, friendly probole, and false crocus geometer. The berry-like drupes appear from August to September and attract many birds and other wildlife, including ruffed grouse, wild turkey, woodchucks, raccoons and squirrels.

Scroll to Top