Kousa Dogwood

Cornus kousa is a species of flowering tree in the dogwood family, native to Japan, Korea, and China. It's commonly known as the Kousa dogwood or Japanese dogwood. This tree is a small to medium-sized deciduous tree that typically grows up to 30 feet tall and wide at maturity. One of the most distinctive features of the Kousa dogwood is its flowers. In late spring to early summer, it produces clusters of small, creamy white to pinkish-red flowers that are surrounded by four showy, petal-like bracts. These bracts can be white, pink, or red, and give the tree an ornamental appearance. In the fall, the Kousa dogwood produces a second show of color when its foliage turns a deep red to purple color. It also produces edible fruit that resembles raspberries and is often used in jams and jellies. The Kousa dogwood is a relatively low maintenance tree that prefers well-drained soil and partial to full sun. It is also relatively pest and disease-resistant. It's a popular choice for ornamental landscaping, particularly in smaller gardens, due to its compact size and beautiful flowers. It is also a great choice for a wildlife garden, as its fruit provides food for birds and other wildlife.