Audubon® Silky Dogwood

In late summer or early fall, you’ll look forward to the appearance of fruit on your Silky Dogwood. Each year, this fun native Accent produces a crop of jewel-tone berries that progress from porcelain-blue to cobalt as they ripen. You won’t enjoy the show for long, however, because as soon as they’re ready, a feeding frenzy will ensue! It has been estimated that the fatty, high-energy fruits are relished by at least 45 species of birds—among them, robins, cardinals, catbirds, and Cedar Waxwings. If you live in the country, ducks, turkeys, and quail will join in on the feast. An avian favorite.

Everyone knows about the famous Flowering Dogwood Tree and its beautiful blossoms and bird-pleasing fruits. But there are many other, lesser-known native Dogwoods that serve wildlife as well. Silky Dogwood is a shrubby cousin to Flowering Dogwood that is found all over the Northeast and Midwest. Silky Dogwood’s creamy-white flowers open in late spring. They aren’t as flashy as those of Flowering Dogwood, but they are more appealing to pollinators. All sorts of bees and other buzzing things will visit them. Silky Dogwood is also a host plant for the darling little spring azure butterfly. You may discover it laying eggs around the time the flowers bloom..

The Silky Dogwood likes moisture at its feet, so it usually grows near ponds or wetlands. Likewise, it’s ideal for a pond’s edge or marshy area on your own property, or simply for a low spot in your yard that drains slowly. Grow it en masse for maximum wildlife appeal!

We do the hard part. Our trees and plants are grown and cared for by only the best, local growers for years before they find their forever home in your landscape. Bower & Branch is known for having hard-to-find, substantial sizes and selection. The quality of our trees and plants are consistent in health and vigor—always ready for immediate impact in your garden and instant curb appeal. We believe in empowering homeowners with the truth about strong, healthy and structurally sound plants that are grown to perform in the ground after they leave the nursery for home delivery, always fresh inventory from the grower

Audubon is devoted to protecting birds and the places they need, while Bower & Branch is devoted to the growth of true native trees and plants–no cultivars or hybrids. Together, we strive to unite communities in conservation and inspire individuals to cultivate a better world for birds starting in their own backyards, balconies, or patios. By guiding and recommending trees and plants truly native and beneficial to your region, we can really start to make a difference.

What is the definition of Native?

“In the United States, a native plant is defined as one that was naturally found in a particular area before European colonization. Native plants are the foundation of a region’s biodiversity, providing essential food sources and shelter for birds, especially those threatened by the changing climate. Since native plants are adapted to local precipitation and soil conditions, they generally require less upkeep, therefore helping the environment and saving you time, water, and money.” – The National Audubon Society

Learn how you can help birds in your home and community through Audubon’s Plants for Birds program.

Audubon® is a licensed and registered trademark of the National Audubon Society. All rights reserved.