Kousa dogwood - Cornus kousa (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Kousa dogwood

Also known as: Kousa, Chinese dogwood

The kousa dogwood is known for its ornamental appeal. The showy flowers and bark, as well as the lovely fall foliage, make this vase-shaped tree a great addition to your patio, yard, or lawn. The tree matures to about 9 m high and is often just as wide.

Scientific classification

Species

Kousa dogwood (Cornus kousa)

Dogwoods, hydrangeas, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

Early fall, Mid fall

Harvest Time

4 m to 10 m

Plant Height

2.5 m to 6 m

Spread

Green, Yellow, Purple, Red

Leaf Color

2.5 cm to 8 cm

Flower Size

Pink, Red

Fruit Color

White, Cream, Yellow, Pink, Green

Flower Color

Green, Purple, Pink, Red, Brown, Cream

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of Kousa dogwood

Distribution of Kousa dogwood

Distribution Map

The kousa dogwood is native to the Sikkim region of China and other temperate regions in East Asia. It has been introduced to Hawaii, Massachusetts, New York, and North Carolina, where it's widely used as an ornamental. Its natural ecosystem includes mountains, forests, and disturbed areas.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Woods, Valleys, Shaded slopes, Streams, Roadsides

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Environmental Protection Value

Dendrobenthamia japonica can purify air.

Economic Value

Its fruits contain oil and can be refined to make soaps or used as lubricants.

Garden Use

Kousa dogwood is commonly planted as an ornamental accent tree in landscaping for homes and public spaces, including parks and roadsides. It has long been appreciated for its delicate beauty and hardiness, as well as the fact that it produces visual appeal all year round. Shallow-rooted perennials will make the best companion plants for this tree, including Sweet woodruff, Dead nettle, and Cranesbill.

Symbolism

Rebirth, resilience, purity, affection, strength

Interesting Facts

Dendrobenthamia japonica flowers are very beautiful. In spring, when dendrobenthamia japonica is in full bloom, light green or white huge flowers are perched on its branches. However, its flowers are actually not really huge. The real flowers are closely clustered in the center of the huge flowers, while the beautiful and elegant petals around them are actually enormous bracts.

Name Story

Kousa dogwood: Dogwood is derived from dagwood. It means making sharp objects, such as daggers, bamboo sticks, etc. with its hardwood or even rhizome. When kousa is brought up, it is difficult to find out about its meaning. The only thing that can be confirmed is that in Japanese, it means "dogwood".

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Kousa dogwood, including the following common varieties :

Kousa dogwood 'Miss Satomi'

Quickly Identify Kousa dogwood

Bark peels in tan and brown patches, evolving with age for distinctive mottled effect.

Creamy white bracts in late spring, nearly covering tree, surrounding inconspicuous flowers.

Reddish-pink drupes, 1-1.5 inches in diameter, encasing yellowish-orange interior with lengthy stalk.

Dark green glossy leaves, oval-shaped, turning reddish-purple to scarlet in fall.

Smooth, upright stem starts purple/green, matures to light brown, with symmetrical branching.

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Care Guide for Kousa dogwood

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from East Asia, kousa dogwood prefers moderately moist, well-drained soil and exhibits moderate drought tolerance once established. Water kousa dogwood once every 1-2 weeks, allowing soil to partially dry. Mulching aids in moisture retention, enhancing its ornamental value when grown outdoors.

Fertilize: Fertilize kousa dogwood annually in early spring for optimal growth and flowering. Follow label rates to avoid root burn, adjusting for growth stage and season. Water soil before and after applying fertilizer to enhance nutrient absorption and promote root health.

Pruning: Kousa dogwood showcases beautiful flowers and appealing bark. Prune in early spring, eliminating dead branches first, and avoid cutting more than one-third of branches. Thinning enhances air circulation and light, reduces disease risk, and promotes healthy growth and flowering.

Propagation: Kousa dogwood, native to East Asia, features distinctive bracts and edible fruit. Propagate through semi-hardwood cuttings taken during active growth, using rooting hormone and well-draining soil. Maintain consistent moisture and warmth, offering shade until rooted, which may take several months for successful acclimatization.

Repotting: Repot kousa dogwood every 2-3 years in late winter to early spring, using a sturdy container. Ensure well-drained soil and regular watering post-repotting. Monitor moisture levels and protect kousa dogwood from harsh conditions for optimal growth and a vibrant display.

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Images of Kousa dogwood

Distribution of Kousa dogwood

Culture

Cultivars

Quickly Identify Kousa dogwood

Care Guide for Kousa dogwood

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