Cornus kousa
Kousa dogwood
Common names: Japanese flowering dogwood
Category imageThis description was machine-translated.
Description
The Kousa dogwood (*Cornus kousa*) is a large ornamental shrub or small tree that makes a striking appearance in early summer. In June, often around mid‑June (week 24), large white to cream‑colored bracts surround the tiny flowers, creating a star‑shaped butterfly effect in the foliage. Late summer produces strawberry‑like, red‑spotted fruits that are edible raw and taste mildly sweet to slightly starchy. In autumn the plant displays a vivid color transition from orange to deep purple before the leaves fall. Its layered growth habit makes it a focal point as a solitary specimen in a front garden or along a garden edge.
Care instructions
Plant the Kousa dogwood in a semi‑shaded to sunny spot that is wind‑protected, ideally in autumn between October and November (weeks 40‑46) so it can establish roots before winter. The soil should be humus‑rich, loose, and slightly acidic to neutral; heavy, water‑logged soils are unsuitable, so a drainage layer of gravel is recommended when planting. Water young plants regularly for the first two years, especially during dry summer weeks; mature shrubs with established roots generally need no additional watering. Pruning is rarely necessary; remove only dead or crossing branches in late winter to maintain the layered form. A mulch layer of leaf or bark humus helps retain moisture around the roots and protects young plants from frost.
Soil & site
Soil pH
Soil type
well-drained, moist, humus-rich, lime-avoiding
Feeding
Medium feeder
Pruning
Notes from real gardens
What other gardeners have written down about this variety — anonymous, voluntary.
No notes shared yet. Will you be the first to write one down?