Silky Cornel
Cornus amomum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Cornus amomum (Silky Cornel) is a native shrub found throughout eastern North America that blooms with white flowers in June and July. This adaptable dogwood thrives in moist soils and attracts bees, beetles, and flies.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Silky Cornel as toxic to livestock.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
48"–120" H × 48"–96" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, CT, DE, FL and 24 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles, flies
Silky cornel is a medium to large native shrub that produces clusters of small white flowers in summer followed by blue berries. This adaptable dogwood tolerates wet conditions and forms dense colonies over time, making it excellent for naturalized areas and erosion control.
Growing Silky Cornel
Grow Silky Cornel in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 48 to 120 inches tall and spread 48 to 96 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Silky Cornel takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Very large size may violate height restrictions
- Deciduous nature leaves bare stems in winter
- Informal growth habit lacks structured appearance
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees, beetles, and flies in summer, while the blue berries provide food for birds. Dense branching structure offers good nesting habitat for songbirds.
Common questions
- When does Silky Cornel bloom?
- Cornus amomum produces white flowers during June and July.
- What pollinators visit Silky Cornel?
- Bees, beetles, and flies are attracted to the flowers of Cornus amomum.
- Where is Silky Cornel native?
- This dogwood species is native to much of eastern North America, from Maine south to Florida and west to Iowa and Missouri.
- What growing conditions does Silky Cornel prefer?
- Cornus amomum grows best in moist soils and can tolerate full sun to partial shade conditions.
- Is Silky Cornel toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Silky Cornel as toxic to livestock.
- Is Silky Cornel HOA-friendly?
- Silky Cornel takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Silky Cornel? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz