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cornus kousa dogwood

If you are in search of a stunning ornamental tree, look no further than the Cornus kousa dogwood. Known for its spectacular blooms, unique bark, and vibrant fall foliage, this tree is a favourite among gardeners and landscape designers alike. With its graceful, layered branching and beautiful flowers that resemble a flurry of white starbursts, the Cornus kousa dogwood adds a touch of elegance to any garden or yard. Additionally, its resilience in various soil types makes it a desirable choice for both urban and rural landscapes.

Cornus 'Milky Way' specimen tree covered in masses of white flowers.

Cornus kousa 'Milky Way'

Cornus kousa 'Milky Way' features large and showy, white flowers that adorn the tree in spring and are followed by red berries in autumn. The glossy foliage is dark green and contrasts perfectly with the flowers. As autumn progresses, the leaves develop impressive shades of red before falling.

From $340.69

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Trees
Height: 5.00 m
Spread: 6.00 m
Flowering time: Spring
Tolerances: Hardy
Garden uses: Parks, Specimen
Garden styles: Alpine, Architectural, Backyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern
Cornus 'National' specimen tree with masses of cream-coloured flowers.

Cornus kousa National

Cornus kousa 'National' is a deciduous tree that features large and showy, cream white flowers in spring, which are followed by red berries in autumn. The glossy foliage is dark green and contrasts perfectly with the flowers. As autumn progresses, the leaves develop impressive shades of red and purple before falling.

From $270.40

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Trees
Height: 5.00 m
Spread: 4.00 m
Flowering time: Spring
Tolerances: Hardy
Garden uses: Parks, Specimen
Garden styles: Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern
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...

From$383.29
A Cornus 'Cloud 9' specimen tree with masses of white flowers.
Cornus 'Cloud 9'

Cornus 'Cloud 9' produces masses of showy, single, white flowers through spring, which are followed by clusters of red fruit in autumn. The foliage...

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Cornus 'Eddies White Wonder' white flowers held on trailing stems.
Cornus 'Eddie's White Wonder'

Cornus 'Eddie's White Wonder' is a deciduous dogwood tree renowned for its impressive spring blossoms and vibrant autumn foliage. This hybrid...

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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...

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Cornus 'Southern Cross' white flowers with lush, green foliage.
Cornus kousa 'Southern Cross'

Cornus kousa 'Southern Cross' features large and showy, white flowers which adorn the tree in spring and are followed by red berries in autumn. It...

From$340.69
Cornus alba 'Sibirica' new spring foliage with white flowers.
Cornus alba 'Sibirica'

Cornus alba ‘Sibirica’, commonly known as Siberian Dogwood, is a striking deciduous shrub ideal for New Zealand gardens. It is prized for its vivid...

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A Cornus kousa 'Satomi' specimen tree with masses of elegant pink flowers.
Cornus kousa 'Satomi'

Cornus kousa 'Satomi' is a small and popular, deciduous tree that features masses of large and showy, pink flowers in spring, which are followed by...

From$270.40
A small Cornus kousa 'China Girl' specimen tree with masses of white flowers against green foliage.
Cornus kousa 'China Girl'

Cornus kousa 'China Girl' is a small and popular, deciduous tree with large and showy, white flowers that adorn the tree in spring and are followed...

From$340.69
Cornus 'Stokes Pink' elegant pink flowers.
Cornus 'Stokes Pink'

Cornus 'Stokes Pink' is a deciduous shrub grown for its colourful flowering in spring. At this time, masses of showy, two-tone pink flowers are borne...

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Cornus 'Cherokee Chief' specimen tree with masses of pink flowers in late winter.
Cornus Cherokee Chief

Cornus 'Cherokee Chief' is a small, deciduous tree grown for its impressive flowering and attractive form. Masses of rose-red flowers are borne in...

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Cornus controversa variegata (Wedding Cake Tree) specimen in a large garden.
Cornus controversa variegata

Cornus controversa variegata, commonly referred to as the Wedding Cake Tree, features tiered branches that bear leaves that are variegated cream and...

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Cornus kousa (Dogwood) specimen tree with lush green foliage and masses of white flowers.
Cornus kousa

Cornus kousa is a variety of Dogwood grown for its impressive flowering and attractive form. Large and showy, white flowers adorn the tree in spring...

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A Cornus kousa 'Pendula' tree with white flowers and cascading green foliage.
Cornus kousa 'Pendula'

Cornus kousa 'Pendula' is a deciduous shrub that produces large and showy, white flowers through spring and summer. It grows with an upright and...

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Cornus 'Doubloon' elegant white flowers with lush, green foliage.
Cornus kousa 'Doubloon'

Cornus kousa 'Doubloon' features masses of showy, white flowers in spring just as the new foliage begins to emerge. The leaves emerge green with...

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A Cornus 'Bonfire' tree covered in white flowers with green foliage.
Cornus kousa 'Bonfire'

Cornus kousa 'Bonfire' features large and showy, white flowers in spring, which are followed by red berries in autumn. The glossy foliage is...

OUT OF STOCK
Cornus 'Midwinter Fire' plant with orange-red stems.
Cornus 'Midwinter Fire'

Cornus 'Mountain Fire' is a variety of the commonly known, Dogwood, and is a shrub that features brightly coloured stems which are most pronounced in...

OUT OF STOCK
Cornus 'Spring Song' rose-pink flowers.
Cornus florida 'Spring Song'

Cornus florida 'Spring Song' is a deciduous shrub grown for its colourful flowering in spring. At this time, masses of showy, rose-pink flowers are...

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Cornus alba 'Elegantissima' variegated foliage.
Cornus alba 'Elegantissima'

Cornus alba 'Elegantissima', commonly known as the Red-Twig Dogwood, is a deciduous shrub grown for its variegated foliage and colourful stems. The...

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Stunning Cornus 'Greenvale' trees in a modern garden.
Cornus 'Greenvale'

Cornus 'Greenvale' is a small, deciduous tree grown for its showy and long-lasting flowers. Masses of the large, light green flowers are borne...

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Cornus 'First Lady' specimen tree with yellow-green foliage.
Cornus florida 'First Lady'

Cornus florida 'First Lady' features masses of showy, white flowers through spring, which are followed by clusters of red fruit in autumn. The...

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Cornus 'Golden Wedding' specimen tree.
Cornus controversa 'Golden Wedding'

Cornus controversa 'Golden Wedding' features lush foliage that emerges with bronze tones in spring, ages quickly to reveal green and gold...

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Cornus 'Rainbow' yellow and green variegated foliage.
Cornus florida 'Rainbow'

Cornus florida 'Rainbow' is a deciduous shrub grown for its impressive flowering and colourful foliage. Large and showy, white flowers adorn the tree...

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Cornus mas tree with yellow flowers.
Cornus mas

Cornus mas, commonly known as the Cornelian Cherry Dogwood, is grown for its impressive flowering, attractive form, and autumn fruits. Small, yellow...

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Cornus nuttallii plant with green foliage and white flowers.
Cornus nuttallii

Cornus nuttallii, commonly known as Pacific Dogwood, features large and showy, cream-white flowers that adorn the tree in spring and are followed by...

OUT OF STOCK
Cornus 'Old Gold' lime-green foliage in summer.
Cornus florida 'Old Gold'

Cornus florida 'Old Gold' is a small, deciduous tree with foliage that emerges golden yellow in spring, then ages to become an antique gold colour in...

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A Cornus capitata (Evergreen Dogwood) tree with lush green foliage and masses of white flowers.
Cornus capitata

Cornus capitata, commonly known as the Evergreen Dogwood, is a striking small tree or large shrub well-suited to New Zealand gardens. It produces...

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Cornus 'Elizabeth Lustgarten' specimen tree with masses of white flowers.
Cornus 'Elizabeth Lustgarten'

Cornus 'Elizabeth Lustgarten' features large and showy, white flowers during spring and summer, which are followed by red berries in autumn. It grows...

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A Cornus kousa chinensis specimen tree covered in white flowers.
Cornus kousa 'Chinensis'

Cornus kousa Chinensis is a small, deciduous tree that features large and showy, white flowers in spring that mature to a light pink, which are...

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Cornus 'Purple Glory' rose-red flowers in spring.
Cornus florida 'Purple Glory'

Cornus florida 'Purple Glory' features leaves that emerge pink-purple in spring, age to become mid-purple, then develop impressive dark red and black...

OUT OF STOCK
Cornus kousa 'Rubra' pink flowers.
Cornus florida 'Rubra'

Cornus florida 'Rubra' is a medium-sized, deciduous tree featuring large and showy, rose-pink flowers in spring before leaves emerge. Red berries...

OUT OF STOCK
Cornus kousa 'Milky Way'

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You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Cornus, or related Categories - Deciduous Shrubs, and Deciduous Trees.

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Unique Characteristics of Cornus kousa Dogwood

The Cornus kousa dogwood, also known as the Kousa dogwood, typically blooms in late spring to early summer, showcasing large, white bracts that surround its small, yellow-green flowers. This tree matures to a height of around 6 to 9 meters, offering a substantial presence in your garden without being overwhelmingly large. After flowering, it produces delightful, raspberry-like fruit that adds visual interest and can attract wildlife to your landscape.

One of the most charming aspects of the Cornus kousa dogwood is its attractive bark. In its mature stage, the bark develops a beautiful, peeling texture that adds depth and character to your garden, especially during winter months when other foliage has faded. If you’re interested in more options, consider looking at Cornus kousa Satomi for a cherry-pink variation, or explore the classic beauty of Cornus kousa National.

Ideal Conditions and Care

Cornus kousa dogwood thrives best in well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil and full to partial sunlight. It can tolerate light shade, but for optimal flowering and growth, aim to provide it with at least four to six hours of direct sunlight per day. Regular watering during dry spells is essential, particularly in the first few years as the tree establishes its roots.

Pruning is generally minimal for Cornus kousa dogwood, and it is best done in late winter or early spring before the blooming starts. This encourages a healthy shape while improving air circulation within the tree's canopy. If you're cultivating multiple dogwoods, consider pairing it with varieties like Cornus kousa Moonbeam for a diverse and colourful display.

Varieties of Cornus kousa

Peeking into the world of Cornus kousa, there are several notable cultivars that you might find appealing. For instance, the Cornus kousa Southern Cross features a unique habit and flowering pattern, while the stunning Cornus kousa Milky Way offers a dramatic contrast with its deep green leaves.

If you’re looking for a lower-growing option, explore the charming characteristics of Cornus kousa Pendula, which brings a weeping form to your garden aesthetics. Each variant presents wonderful possibilities, making Cornus kousa dogwood a versatile choice for any landscaper or DIY gardener.

In summary, the Cornus kousa dogwood is a magnificent addition to any landscape, giving year-round appeal through its flowers, foliage, and bark. Embrace this beauty in your garden and consider adding related varieties to enhance your space with diverse textures and colours.

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