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chinese dogwood tree

The Chinese dogwood tree is an enchanting addition to any New Zealand garden, prized for its elegant shape, showy blooms, and year-round interest. Also known as Cornus kousa, this deciduous tree features clouds of creamy white star-shaped flowers in late spring, followed by raspberry-red fruit and rich autumn colour. If you’re searching for a striking specimen tree that complements a range of garden styles, the Chinese dogwood tree delivers beauty and resilience season after season.

A Cornus controversa (Giant Dogwood) specimen tree.

Cornus controversa

Cornus controversa, commonly known as the Giant Dogwood, is a medium-sized, deciduous tree that features lush foliage that emerges mid-green in spring, ages to become dark green, then develops colourful red and purple tones in autumn before falling. The tree is adorned with clusters of cream-white flowers in summer, which result in small, dark blue berries. It typically grows to 10 m tall and 6 m wide. Cornus controversa makes for a lovely specimen tree and is an excellent choice for adding to a mixed planting, or using as a backdrop for smaller plants.

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Trees
Height: 10.00 m
Spread: 6.00 m
Flowering time: Summer
Garden uses: Parks, Specimen
Garden styles: Alpine, Backyard, Frontyard, Japanese
Cornus stolonifera 'Flaviramea' plants with yellow stems.

Cornus stolonifera 'Flaviramea'

Cornus stolonifera Flaviramea, commonly known as the Yellow Stem Dogwood, is a shrub that features bright yellow stems which become more pronounced in winter. The leaves emerge dark green in spring, and remain this colour until developing red tones in autumn and falling. It typically grows to 2.5 m tall and 1 m wide, and should be trimmed each year. Cornus Flaviramea is a great plant for adding to a mixed planting, as well as cluster planting to provide a dramatic winter display.

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Shrubs
Height: 2.50 m
Spread: 1.00 m
Flowering time: Spring, Summer
Tolerances: Hardy
Garden uses: Hedging, Living areas
Garden styles: Alpine, Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Formal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern
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Cornus controversa

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Search chinese dogwood tree

Features and Benefits of the Chinese Dogwood Tree

The Chinese dogwood tree typically grows 4-8 metres high, making it an ideal choice for small gardens or as a statement tree in larger landscapes. Its layers of horizontal branches give it an attractive, tiered appearance reminiscent of wedding cake trees, much like Cornus controversa. In spring, the delicate blossoms emerge atop the foliage, providing a spectacular show that draws in pollinators and brightens any border or lawn. By mid to late summer, clusters of edible, bright red fruits appear—these not only add ornamental value but also attract native birds.

As autumn arrives, the Chinese dogwood tree’s foliage shifts to shades of scarlet and purple, ensuring it remains a focal point in the landscape long after other trees have finished putting on their best displays.

How to Grow and Care for a Chinese Dogwood Tree

The Chinese dogwood tree thrives in well-drained soil and prefers a spot with full sun to partial shade. Once established, it’s a hardy, low-maintenance tree well suited to New Zealand conditions, tolerating frost and occasional dry spells. For best results, mulch around the base annually and water deeply during extended dry periods. Because of its modest height and non-invasive root system, the Chinese dogwood tree is perfect for planting near patios, as a lawn specimen, or among mixed woodland plantings.

If you’re a fan of dogwoods, you might also enjoy the golden stems of Cornus stolonifera 'Flaviramea' for winter colour, or the prolific blooms of Cornus kousa 'Milky Way'.

Landscaping Ideas with Chinese Dogwood Tree

The elegant silhouette and multi-season interest of the Chinese dogwood tree make it a wonderful companion for other feature trees and textural shrubs. Use it as a focal point in a cottage garden or along a driveway to welcome guests with a burst of blooms. Pair with evergreens such as Podocarpus Maki (Fern Pine) for year-round structure, or underplant with bulbs and woodland perennials for added spring magic.

Expand Your Collection

For those seeking other unique trees, consider the striking form of Sapium sebiferum (Chinese Tallowood), which offers brilliant autumn foliage, or browse the full range of specimen trees and shrubs to complement your Chinese dogwood tree.

Whether you’re planning a new landscape or looking to add a touch of elegance, the Chinese dogwood tree brings beauty, biodiversity, and four-season interest to New Zealand gardens.


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