Metallic Berries

The metallic blue of these dogwood berries in the sun drew me to them. They almost looked as if they'd been sprayed with a glossy coating. Oh, and this shrub is called Silky Dogwood, Cornus amomum.

The berries turn white as they mature, and aren't known to be very palatable to humans (a pity, since I like to forage, and these are plentiful)

It can be a very useful aid in preventing excess runoff from properties around lakeshore edges.

PLUS, check out these benefits from Leaves for wildlife:
Host plant for 111 types of caterpillars, including the spring/summer azure butterflies, and io and definite tussock moths. Butterflies nectar at its blooms. Its fruits are eaten by songbirds, ruffed grouse, quail, turkey, chipmunks, black bear, foxes, white-tailed deer, skunks, and squirrels. The foliage is browsed by white-tailed deer. Members of the genus Cornus support the following specialized bees: Andrena (Gonandrena) fragilis, Andrena (Gonandrena) integra, and Andrena (Gonandrena) platyparia. Its low-growing habit provides important cover and nesting sites.