Origin
Cornus amomum P. Mill. ssp. obliqua (Raf.) J.S. Wilson, commonly known as silky dogwood, is a shrub species of the family Cornaceae. It is native to eastern North America, specifically from Newfoundland and southern Quebec to Minnesota, Kansas, and Tennessee, growing in wetlands, along streams, and in swamps.
Common Names
Silky dogwood is commonly called silky cornel, blue dogwood, swamp dogwood, gray dogwood, and pale dogwood.
Uses
Silky dogwood has several uses. As a landscaping plant, it is grown for its attractive foliage, showy clusters of white flowers that bloom in early summer, and blue-black berries that attract birds. Silky dogwood is also a good stabilizer of soil along streams. Its fibrous root system helps to prevent soil erosion and provide habitat for fish and aquatic invertebrates. Additionally, silky dogwood has medicinal properties. The bark is used to treat colds, fever, and headaches, while the berries are used as a laxative, among other purposes.
General Appearance
Silky dogwood is a deciduous shrub that typically grows 6-18 feet tall and wide. It has smooth, grayish-brown bark, with younger branches having a red tint. The leaves are simple, opposite, oval-shaped, and 2-5 inches long. They are dark green and glossy on the upper surface and lighter green on the underside. In the fall, the leaves turn reddish-purple to golden-yellow. The flowers are small and white, forming in clusters that are 2-3 inches in diameter. The fruits are blue-black berries that are about 1/4 inch in diameter and ripen in late summer.
Light Requirements
Cornus amomum P. Mill. ssp. obliqua (Raf.) J.S. Wilson requires full to partial sun exposure for optimal growth. In the wild, this plant species is mostly found in riparian areas that receive intermittent sunlight. Therefore, exposing the plant to full sun may cause leaf scorching or sunburn.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species is well adapted to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Hardiness Zones 3 to 8, which means that it can withstand temperatures of -40 degrees Fahrenheit during the winter months. Cornus amomum P. Mill. ssp. obliqua (Raf.) J.S. Wilson grows best in cool to temperate climate regions, with temperatures ranging from 50 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit during the growing season.
Soil Requirements
Cornus amomum P. Mill. ssp. obliqua (Raf.) J.S. Wilson thrives in well-drained soils that have a pH range of 4.5 to 7.5. The plant prefers moist soils but can also tolerate drought conditions. In addition, the plant prefers soils that are rich in organic matter and nitrogen, as this promotes proper growth and development.
Cultivation Methods
Cornus amomum P. Mill. ssp. obliqua (Raf.) J.S. Wilson, commonly known as silky dogwood, is a shrub that grows best in full sun to partial shade. It is adaptable to various soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. The ideal pH range for growing this plant is between 5.0 and 7.0. Planting should be done in spring or fall, and it is best to mix compost or aged manure into the hole before planting. Plant spacing should be between 4 to 6 feet apart.Watering Needs
Silky dogwood requires deep watering once a week. However, if the weather is hot and dry, it may need additional watering. Make sure the soil remains moist but not water-logged. It is best to water the plant early in the morning to allow enough time for the foliage to dry before nightfall.Fertilization
Fertilization should be done annually in early spring before the new growth appears. Use a slow-release or balanced fertilizer. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions on the application rate and method. Avoid applying too much nitrogen, which can result in excessive foliar growth and reduced flowering.Pruning
Pruning silky dogwood is necessary to maintain its shape and health. It is best to prune the plant in late winter when it is dormant. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. Cut back old wood to stimulate new growth. To maintain a compact shape, prune the shrub to a few inches above the ground. Avoid pruning more than one-third of the plant in a single pruning session.Propagation of Cornus amomum P. Mill. ssp. obliqua (Raf.) J.S. Wilson
Cornus amomum P. Mill. ssp. obliqua (Raf.) J.S. Wilson, commonly known as silky dogwood, is a deciduous shrub native to North America. Propagation of Cornus amomum can be done using several methods:
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Cornus amomum can be collected from mature plants during the fall season. The collected seeds must be stratified before sowing. Stratification is the process of subjecting the seeds to cold and moist conditions. It can be done by placing the seeds in a sealed plastic bag with a moist substrate and leaving them in a refrigerator for 60 to 90 days. Once stratified, the seeds can be sown in spring in a potting mix. The potting mix should be kept moist, and the container must be placed in a warm location with partial shade. Germination typically occurs within 2 to 3 weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted outdoors after 2 years of growth.
Semi-Hardwood Cuttings Propagation
Semi-hardwood cuttings are mature stems that have completed their growth, hardened off, and started lignifying. Propagation using semi-hardwood cuttings typically occurs in late summer. The cuttings should be taken from healthy plants, at a length of 3 to 4 inches. The leaves on the lower half of the cutting should be removed, and the remaining leaves should be trimmed by half. The cuttings can be dipped in rooting hormone powder and planted in a container with a rooting medium. The container should be kept in a warm location with high humidity. The cuttings typically root in 4 to 6 weeks and can be transplanted outdoors after one year of growth.
Division Propagation
Cornus amomum can also be propagated through division. This is typically done during the early spring, before the plant has started budding. The plant is dug up, and the roots are carefully separated into smaller clumps. Each clump should have several stems. The divided plants can be planted in a container or directly into the ground. The container or ground should be kept moist, and the plants should be placed in a shaded area until they are established.
Disease and Pest Management for Cornus amomum P. Mill. ssp. obliqua (Raf.) J.S. Wilson
Cornus amomum P. Mill. ssp. obliqua (Raf.) J.S. Wilson, commonly known as Silky dogwood, is a species of flowering plant in the family Cornaceae. This plant is native to North America and is widely cultivated for its ornamental value. However, like any other plant, Silky dogwood is susceptible to various pests and diseases that can affect its growth and health. Below is a list of common pests and diseases that may affect Silky dogwood and ways to manage them.
Diseases:
1. Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease that affects Silky dogwood. The symptoms of powdery mildew on Silky dogwood include the appearance of white, powdery patches on the leaves and stems. To manage powdery mildew, it is recommended to remove and destroy infected plant parts, avoiding overhead irrigation, and promoting good air circulation around the plant.
2. Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is another fungal disease that affects Silky dogwood. It causes the formation of small, circular or irregularly shaped spots on the leaves. To manage leaf spot, it is recommended to remove and destroy infected plant parts, avoid overhead irrigation, and improve air circulation around the plant.
3. Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that affects Silky dogwood during cool, wet weather. It causes irregularly shaped spots and blotches on the leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage anthracnose, prune the infected plant parts, avoid overhead watering, and improve air circulation around the plant.
Pests:
1. Dogwood borer: Dogwood borer is a common pest that attacks Silky dogwood. This pest causes the wilting and discoloration of leaves, branches, and eventually, the entire plant. To manage dogwood borer, it is recommended to prune and destroy infested branches, keep the plant healthy and stress-free, and use insecticides.
2. Japanese beetles: Japanese beetles are also a common pest of Silky dogwood. They feed on the leaves of the plant, causing skeletonization. To manage Japanese beetles, it is recommended to pick them off by hand, apply insecticidal soap or insecticides, and plant companion plants that repel them.
3. Scale insects: Scale insects are common pests of Silky dogwood. They attach themselves to the leaves and suck sap from the plant, causing yellowing and wilting of leaves. To manage scale insects, it is recommended to prune and destroy infested branches, use horticultural oil or insecticidal soap, and improve air circulation around the plant.
In summary, Silky dogwood is a beautiful and valuable plant for its ornamental value. However, like any other plant, it is susceptible to various pests and diseases that can affect its growth and health. By managing these pests and diseases effectively, you can help ensure the continued growth and health of your Silky dogwood plant.
