Cornus amomum subsp. obliqua

Silky Dogwood is a mid to large sized, native, multi-branched, deciduous shrub. The foliage is narrowly oval to lance shaped, dark green, prominently veined, and has silky hairs underneath. The lovely flowers are tiny, creamy white coloured and appear abundantly in flat-topped clusters between June and July. The blooms produce drooping clusters of round, silvery blue berries from late summer into the fall. The leaves change to a warm burgundy, maroon colour in the fall. The bark is bright red coloured and eye-catching throughout the winter season.

Silky Dogwood (Cornus amomum subsp. obliqua) is easy to grow, with tolerance to some summer drought, as well as seasonal flood conditions. It is also able to grow easily in full shade but will likely produce less flowers and fruit. Prune after blooms every few years to encourage new growth and bright colour as well as to maintain shape. Will spread through suckers, which should be removed if a contained behaviour is desired. This native is naturally found in wet forests, wetlands, along shorelines, or around ponds. It is beneficial for local pollinators and native wildlife species. Silky Dogwood, also called Swamp Dogwood or Pale Dogwood, is highly valuable for riparian planting projects to stabilize soil and reduce erosion.