Silky Dogwood (Cornus amomum syn. Coerulea) is a native North American shrub known for its beautiful clusters of creamy white flowers and attractive silver-blue berries that ripen in late summer. Often referred to as Kinnikinnik or Red Willow, this deciduous shrub is a favorite for naturalized landscapes, erosion control, and wildlife habitats. The berries are highly attractive to birds, while the dense foliage provides excellent nesting cover.
This hardy shrub adapts well to various soil conditions and is especially valuable for wetland restoration, rain gardens, and woodland edges.
Features
- Produces white flower clusters in spring and striking silver-blue berries in late summer
- Dense, multi-stemmed growth ideal for privacy screens or natural hedges
- Supports pollinators and provides berries for birds and wildlife
- Excellent for wet or low-lying soils and erosion control
- Non-GMO and native to North America
- Attractive red stems in winter for year-round garden interest
Specifications
- Scientific Name: Cornus amomum syn. Cornus coerulea
- Common Names: Silky Dogwood, Kinnikinnik, Red Willow
- Plant Type: Deciduous shrub
- Growth Height: 6–10 feet tall
- Spread: 6–12 feet wide
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 4–8
- Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Type: Moist, well-drained to wet soils; tolerates clay
- Bloom Season: Late spring to early summer
- Berry Season: Late summer to early fall
- Foliage Color: Green leaves turning reddish-purple in fall
- Berry Color: Silver-blue to bluish-white
- GMO Status: Non-GMO
- Planting Season: Spring or fall
- Sowing Depth: ¼ inch
- Germination Time: 30–60 days (may require cold stratification)
- Watering Needs: Moderate to high, especially during establishment
- Maintenance: Prune older stems to rejuvenate growth every few years
- Wildlife Benefits: Attracts butterflies, bees, and songbirds
- Uses: Wildlife gardens, hedges, erosion control, naturalized plantings, rain gardens
Planting Guide
- Stratify Seeds: Cold stratify for 60–90 days to improve germination.
- Soil Prep: Choose moist, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter.
- Sow Seeds: Plant ¼ inch deep and water thoroughly.
- Light: Grow in full sun to partial shade.
- Watering: Keep soil evenly moist, especially in the first growing season.
- Spacing: Space plants 5–10 feet apart for hedges or natural groupings.
- Maintenance: Prune in late winter to remove dead or weak stems.