Dogwood, Silky (Indigo) (AJ)
At a Glance
Latin Name: Cornus amomum
Zones: 4-8
Other common names: kinnikinnik, red-willow, silky cornel, squawbush, indigo dogwood
Mature Height/spread: 6-8 ft high/ 6-9 ft. spread.
Moderate to fast growth rate.
Soil / Climate: Ranges from Maine to Manitoba and as far South as Florida.
It transplants easily and does well in soils that are moist and moderately acidic.
It prefers full sun to partial shade. Widely adaptable.
Notes: Silky Dogwood has red bark, though not quite as red as ‘red osier dogwood’. Leaves are narrow and 3 to 5 inches long, and turn purple to red in autumn. Flowers are yellowish/creamy white which bloom in late May to early June. Fruit is generally abundant, and blue or bluish-white, 1/4 to 3/8 inch in diameter. Popular for erosion control, is hardy and a fast grower.
Wildlife: The fruit is eaten by wood ducks, turkey, ruffed grouse, bobwhite, pheasant, woodcock, woodpeckers, and many others.
-Wetland tolerant, preferred habitat
-Strong habitat preference for a variety of wildlife including deer, ruffed grouse, cottontail, turkey, quail and bees
-Spring planting best, fall planting not recommended
Purchase Size: 2-3 ft.
USDA NRCS Species Information