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silky dogwood
Scientific Name: Cornus obliqua
Family: Cornaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Shrub
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Silky Dogwood (Cornus amomum)
The Silky Dogwood, scientifically known as Cornus amomum, is a versatile shrub valued for its ornamental features and ecological benefits.
Considerations for Pets
- The text mentions the presence of silky hairs on twigs and leaf undersides, which may be a consideration for pets that chew on plants.
Considerations for Children
- Silky Dogwood has small, bluish berry-like drupes.
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 (mentioned in the context of photos of this plant, but may be a misidentification)
- Plant Symbol: COAM2
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 the northwest region) and is also native to North Carolina. It thrives in moist environments such as swamps, damp woods, streams, and pond banks, and is considered a moisture-loving species.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- It is a medium-sized deciduous shrub, typically reaching heights between 6 and 10 feet, though sometimes up to 12 or 15 feet.
- It exhibits a rounded, multi-stemmed habit.
- Twigs and leaf undersides have silky hairs.
- Leaves are opposite, oval, arcuately veined, and have an entire margin. They are green above, potentially silky grayish when young, and paler below. They can grow up to 3 inches long.
- Bark is reddish-purple when young, maturing later.
- It produces creamy white flowers in late spring and early summer.
- The plant features bluish berry-like drupes.
- Red stems are prominent in fall and winter, adding to its 4-season appeal.
Ecological Role and Interactions
- Silky Dogwood attracts butterflies, honeybees, and other beneficial insects with its flowers.
- It serves as a valuable resource for wildlife, with its flowers and fruits providing sustenance.
- The plant is suitable for rain gardens and helps attract wildlife.
- It's utilized in hedgerows and windbreaks.
Additional Information
- Silky Dogwood is used as an ornamental shrub and for hedging.
- It is adaptable to various light conditions, including full sun, partial shade, and shade.
- It's considered a hardy and fast-growing shrub.
- The pith of its twigs is dark brown.
Resources
- Encyclopedia of Life
- USDA NRCS Plant Materials Program
- Ontario Trees and Shrubs
- Dave's Garden
- Arborday.org zone map