Silky Dogwood
Cornus obliqua
Last reviewed: June 2026
Cornus obliqua (Silky Dogwood) is a native shrub found across eastern and central North America that produces clusters of small white flowers in May and June. This adaptable plant thrives in moist soils and attracts various pollinators including bees, beetles, and flies.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
72"–240" H × 72"–240" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AR, CT, IA, IL and 24 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Silky dogwood is a medium to large native shrub that produces clusters of small white flowers in late spring and early summer. It develops attractive fall color and blue-white berries, making it a reliable choice for naturalized areas and wildlife gardens.
Growing Silky Dogwood
Grow Silky Dogwood in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 72 to 240 inches tall and spread 72 to 240 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Silky Dogwood 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 mature size may appear overgrown
- Spreads by suckers creating informal colonies
- Can look sparse or leggy in winter
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees, beetles, and flies during blooming season. Birds feed on the berries in fall, and the dense branching provides nesting sites for various species.
Common questions
- When does Silky Dogwood bloom?
- Silky Dogwood blooms in late spring to early summer, typically during May and June, producing small white flowers in flat-topped clusters.
- What pollinators visit Cornus obliqua?
- Silky Dogwood attracts a variety of pollinators including bees, beetles, and flies that feed on the nectar and pollen of its small white flowers.
- Where is Silky Dogwood native?
- Cornus obliqua is native to a large portion of eastern and central North America, ranging from Maine south to Arkansas and from North Dakota east to Connecticut.
- What growing conditions does Silky Dogwood prefer?
- This adaptable shrub grows well in full sun to partial shade and prefers medium to high moisture conditions, making it suitable for rain gardens and naturalized areas.
- Is Silky Dogwood HOA-friendly?
- Silky Dogwood 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 Dogwood? 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