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 variegated yellow and dark green, and complements the flowers nicely. As autumn progresses, the leaves develop impressive shades of red and orange before falling. It grows with a vase shape to about 5 m tall and 4 m wide. Cornus kousa 'Bonfire' is commonly grown as a specimen and is excellent for including in a mixed planting, planting to border an entranceway, using in avenue plantings, maintaining in a courtyard garden, or including in a cottage garden.

Cornus kousa 'Bonfire' is currently unavailable, but we do have other other amazing species and varieties of Cornus available.

explore them here

Notify me when this is available:
Please enter your email address below if you would like to know when it becomes available again.

Suited to regions:	All regions
Plant type:	Trees
Height:	5.00 m
Spread:	4.00 m
Flowering time:	Spring
Tolerances:
Garden uses:	Living areas, Parks, Specimen
Garden styles:	Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern
Easy to grow?	Yes
Maintenance requirements	Low
Growth rate	Medium
Also known as
Sku	18351

How to grow Cornus kousa 'Bonfire' in NZ

Plant Cornus kousa 'Bonfire' in fertile, well drained soil enriched with organic matter. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers a slightly acidic soil profile. Shelter from strong winds will protect its delicate spring flowers. Regular watering during dry spells, especially in the first few years, is important for establishment. In NZ conditions, this Cornus adapts well and rewards gardeners with brilliant foliage and blooms.

Cornus kousa 'Bonfire' care tips

Cornus kousa 'Bonfire' requires minimal maintenance once established. Prune lightly in winter to remove damaged or crossing branches and to shape the canopy. Feed with a balanced slow release fertiliser each spring to promote strong growth and abundant flowers. Mulching annually helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. With this easy care routine, your Bonfire dogwood will remain healthy and visually stunning year after year.

Cornus kousa 'Bonfire' size, spacing, and growth rate

Cornus kousa 'Bonfire' typically grows to 4 to 6 metres tall and 3 to 5 metres wide, forming a rounded, upright habit. It has a moderate growth rate, making it suitable for both small and medium sized gardens. Allow 3 to 4 metres of space around the tree to ensure its full shape can develop. Its manageable size and reliable growth make it a popular ornamental choice in NZ landscapes.

Landscaping uses for Cornus kousa 'Bonfire'

Cornus kousa 'Bonfire' is ideal as a feature tree, where its seasonal colour changes can be fully appreciated. It suits cottage gardens, modern landscapes, and woodland plantings. The spring flowers and fiery autumn foliage provide striking contrast with evergreen shrubs and conifers. In NZ gardens, this Cornus enhances outdoor spaces with elegance, colour, and year round beauty.

Why buy Cornus kousa 'Bonfire' from The Plant Company?

Buying Cornus kousa 'Bonfire' from The Plant Company means sourcing from NZ’s most trusted plant nursery. Our Cornus trees are grown to be healthy, robust, and ready for planting. We provide expert growing advice, nationwide delivery, and excellent customer service. With The Plant Company, you can be confident of receiving premium quality plants that will flourish in your garden.

Questions and Answers

Have a question about Cornus kousa 'Bonfire'? We are here to help.

Ask a Question

Please log in or create an account to ask questions.

More species and varieties of Cornus

Popular Deciduous Trees

Dianella 'Little Jess' and Arthropodium cirratum (Rengarenga Lily) are beloved staples, but Carex buchananii (Buchanans Sedge), Ligularia 'Britt-Marie Crawford' (Black Leaved Ligularia), and Hydrangea Machiko bring fresh energy to any planting scheme.

–The Plant Company

Explore Garden Inspiration

Camellia sasanqua Crimson King
If you’re looking to add a touch of elegance and vibrant color to your garden, look no further than the Camellia sasanqua Crimson King. This stunning shrub boasts beautiful, crimson flowers that bl…
Hydrangea paniculata Limelight
If you're searching for a stunning addition to your garden that offers versatility and beauty, look no further than the hydrangea paniculata limelight. This captivating shrub is well-loved among ga…
Weeping Japanese Maple
The weeping Japanese maple (Acer palmatum 'Weeping') is a breathtaking addition to any garden. With its delicate, cascading branches and vibrant foliage, this ornamental tree is a striking choice f…