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silky dogwood
Scientific Name: Cornus amomum
Family: Cornaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Shrub
Duration: Perennial
Other Names: IN (silky dogwood)
Silky Dogwood (Cornus amomum)
The Silky Dogwood is a versatile shrub appreciated for its ornamental value and ecological benefits.
Considerations for Pets
- The text mentions that the Silky Dogwood has silky hairs on its leaves and shoots.
- The shrub produces bluish berry-like drupes (fruits).
- The bark of young twigs is reddish.
Considerations for Children
- The text mentions that the Silky Dogwood has silky hairs on its leaves and shoots.
- The shrub produces bluish berry-like drupes (fruits).
- The bark of young twigs is reddish.
Common Names
- Silky Dogwood
- Swamp Dogwood
- Kinnikinnik
- Red-willow
- Silky Cornel
- Squawbush
- Indigo Dogwood
- Blue-fruited Dogwood
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Cornus amomum Mill.
- Family: Cornaceae (Dogwood Family)
- Synonyms:
- C. coerulea
- Swida amomum
- Cornus obliqua
Distribution and Habitat
Silky Dogwood is native to eastern North America, ranging from Ontario and Quebec south to Arkansas and Georgia. Within the United States, it is found throughout Iowa (except in the northwest region) and is common in states like North Carolina. It thrives in moist environments such as swamps, streams, and pond banks.
Morphological Characteristics
- Growth Habit: Deciduous shrub, often multi-stemmed.
- Size: Typically reaches heights between 6 and 10 feet, sometimes up to 12-15 feet. The width is often similar to the height.
- Leaves: Oval-shaped leaves with silky hairs, especially when young, and paler undersides. Leaves are opposite, typically up to 3 inches long, with an entire margin and arcuate veins. The pith of the twigs is dark brown.
- Flowers: Creamy white, 4-petaled flowers that appear in late spring and early summer.
- Fruit: Bluish berry-like drupes.
- Bark: Reddish-purple when young, maturing to a different color.
Ecological Role and Interactions
Silky Dogwood is noted for attracting butterflies, honeybees, and other beneficial insects with its flowers. Its fruits and overall form also make it good for wildlife gardens. It is used in rain gardens. Its dense growth makes it suitable for hedgerows and windbreaks.
Further Information
- USDA NRCS Plant Materials Program
- Encyclopedia of Life
- Ontario Trees and Shrubs
- Weakley's Flora
- Dave's Garden
- Toadshade Wildflower Farm