Kousa Dogwood

Kousa Dogwood (Cornus kousa)

Kousa Dogwood (Cornus kousa) is a graceful, small flowering tree native to East Asia, prized for its long-lasting white bracts, handsome foliage, and exfoliating bark. Blooming later than native dogwoods, this tree offers a spectacular floral display in early summer, followed by ornamental fruit and brilliant fall color, making it a versatile, multi-season addition to residential and public landscapes alike.

Distinctive Features

This species is known for its layered, horizontal branching and four-petaled, star-like bracts that appear in May or June, often covering the tree in a luminous display. The deep green foliage turns vibrant shades of orange, red, and scarlet in fall, while the mottled bark reveals tones of gray, tan, and brown in winter. In late summer, raspberry-like red fruit adds further ornamental value and attracts birds. Mature trees typically reach 15�30 feet tall with a similar spread, forming a broadly vase-shaped canopy.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil
• Water: Moderate; consistent moisture preferred during establishment
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5�8

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Prominent flowers, fall color, and winter bark make it a standout in all seasons
• Specimen Tree: Excellent for lawns, courtyards, or front yard planting
• Mixed Borders: Pairs beautifully with azaleas, hydrangeas, and other shade-loving shrubs
• Naturalized Gardens: Blends well in woodland edges and informal settings
• Wildlife Gardens: Summer fruit attracts birds and small mammals

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Keep evenly moist during the first few years; drought tolerant once established
• Pruning: Minimal pruning needed; shape lightly in winter if desired
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring
• Mulching: Maintain a mulch ring to preserve moisture and moderate root temperature
• Protection: Naturally resistant to dogwood anthracnose and many pests

Why Choose Kousa Dogwood?

• Extended Bloom Time: Late-spring flowering offers beauty after native dogwoods fade
• Multi-Season Interest: Flowers, fruit, foliage, and bark offer year-round appeal
• Disease Resistance: More resistant to dogwood anthracnose than Cornus florida
• Graceful Form: Attractive vase shape fits a variety of garden styles
• Focal Point: Elegant silhouette and layered branching create lasting impact in the landscape

Cornus kousa is a refined and durable ornamental tree that brings lasting beauty to the garden with its floral display, autumn brilliance, and distinctive form, making it a reliable focal point in both traditional and naturalistic landscapes.