Silky Dogwood
cornus amomum
Also known as: ["Swamp Dogwood","Silky Cornel"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to North America, known for its distinctive blue-gray berries and reddish-brown stems in winter.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Cornales |
| Family: | Cornaceae |
| Genus: | Cornus |
| Botanical Name: | Cornus amomum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: mixed shrub border, woodland edge, or naturalized area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–29 to 38°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight in cooler climates, or filtered sunlight in hotter regions.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; provide shade during peak heat; rotate plants for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until drainage occurs; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
moist, well-drained, fertile soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 4–8; tolerates temperatures from -30°F to 90°F; prefers cooler summers.
Protect from frost; water deeply in heat; adjust care based on seasonal extremes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize in spring before new growth; water before and after applying; avoid contact with stems.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings in late spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F).
Medium
Peat and perlite mix or sterile potting soil.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain humidity with a cover; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches; heading back to encourage bushiness.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage flowering, and remove dead or diseased wood.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Choose new pot; prepare fresh soil; inspect roots; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or peat moss for fertility; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; dieback in prolonged cold; reduced flowering in temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn yellow or brown; stems can become brittle; growth may slow or stop in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect with burlap in extreme cold; choose hardy cultivars for colder regions.
Hot Stress
Wilting despite moist soil; leaf drop; reduced vigor in prolonged heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Choose appropriate fertilizer; apply at correct time; water thoroughly after application.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; reduce or stop fertilizing in late summer.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCornus amomum is not considered toxic to cats. The berries are not known to cause significant adverse effects when ingested by felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCornus amomum is not considered toxic to dogs. The berries are not known to cause significant adverse effects when ingested by canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCornus amomum, commonly known as Silky Dogwood, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. The berries are not known to cause significant toxicity, though they are not typically consumed for culinary purposes.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Cornus amomum have any medicinal uses?
A: There is limited documented evidence of medicinal use, though traditional practices may exist.
Q: How fast does Cornus amomum grow?
A: It grows at a moderate rate, typically reaching maturity in 5-10 years.
Q: Is Cornus amomum suitable for wet soil conditions?
A: Yes, it thrives in moist to wet soils and is often found near water bodies.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cornaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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