Silky dogwood (Cornus amomum) is a common shrub found across eastern North America, often in moist environments like wetlands and stream banks. As interest in identifying local plants grows, questions about edibility arise. This article clarifies the edibility of silky dogwood and provides details for its identification and safe interaction.
Understanding Silky Dogwood Edibility
Silky dogwood berries are technically edible, but they are generally considered unpalatable due to their mealy texture and bitter taste. These small, round drupes ripen to a blue or bluish-purple color in late summer, typically from August to September. While birds and other wildlife consume these berries, they are not a preferred food source for human consumption.
Beyond the berries, other parts of the silky dogwood plant, such as the leaves, bark, or stems, are not consumed for food. Historically, indigenous peoples utilized parts of the silky dogwood for non-food purposes. The bark was sometimes used as a smoking mixture (‘kinnikinnick’) and in traditional medicine for various ailments. The plant’s wood has also been valued for its hardness.
Key Identification Features
Silky dogwood is a deciduous shrub that typically grows 6 to 12 feet tall, often developing a multi-stemmed, open, and rounded form. Its leaves are simple, opposite, and elliptical to ovate, measuring 2 to 3.5 inches long. Both leaf surfaces and young twigs are covered with fine, silky hairs, which is the origin of the plant’s common name.
The twigs are distinct, often dark reddish-purple when young, and possess a characteristic dark brown pith in 1- to 2-year-old stems. In late spring to early summer, creamy white flowers appear in flat-topped clusters. These flowers are followed by small, round berries that ripen to a blue or silvery-blue color.
Important Safety Considerations
Accurate plant identification is paramount before consuming any wild plant. Even if a plant is known to be edible, misidentification can lead to consuming a toxic look-alike. Always consult multiple reliable sources and seek guidance from experienced foragers to confirm identification.
While silky dogwood berries are not considered toxic to humans, consuming large quantities could lead to mild digestive upset. Other dogwood species exist, and some may produce berries that are unpalatable or cause discomfort. The principle of “when in doubt, throw it out” should always be followed when foraging. Additionally, ensure any foraged plants are collected from areas free of pollutants, such as busy roadsides or agricultural fields where chemicals might be present.