SCIENTIFIC NAME: Cornus amomum

COMMON NAME: Silky Dogwood (also called Swamp Dogwood, Kinnikinnik)

GARDEN SIZE: 6 to 12 feet tall by 6 to 12 feet wide

GROWTH RATE: Moderate

USDA ZONE: 5 to 8

Full sun to part shade

WATER & SOIL: Thrives in moist to wet, organically rich soils with slightly acidic to neutral pH. Performs best with consistent moisture and is well-suited for riparian or low-lying plantings. Tolerates periodic flooding and heavy clay.

HABIT (FORM): Medium-sized, open-rounded shrub; may form thickets

FOLIAGE: Deciduous; oval to elliptic green leaves with silky undersides; little to no fall color

FLOWERS: Flat-topped clusters of tiny yellowish-white blooms in May–June, followed by berry-like drupes turning from white to blue in late summer, highly attractive to birds

PLANT ORIGIN: Eastern North America (including Davidson County, TN)

WILDLIFE SUPPORT: Host plant for local butterflies and moths, and food source for pollinators, birds, and small mammals. Supplies shelter and nesting sites.

FERTILIZING: Generally not required. If desired, apply a layer of organic compost in early spring to support growth and soil health.

PRUNING: Prune in late winter to maintain shape and encourage vibrant new growth. Remove 1/3 of oldest stems at the base every 2–3 years, or coppice to 6–12" for bold winter color. Also remove any dead or damaged wood.

TOXICITY FLAGS: Dogwoods are generally considered non-toxic, but inedible.

USES: Rain gardens, riparian buffer zones, erosion control