Cornus kousa

Common Name:
Kousa Dogwood / Chinese Dogwood / Japanese Dogwood

Description:
Cornus kousa, commonly known as the Kousa Dogwood, is a stunning deciduous tree valued for its multi-season appeal. In late spring to early summer, it produces elegant, star-like white to creamy-pink bracts that surround small, true flowers, creating a spectacular floral display. During autumn, its dark green leaves turn rich shades of red, orange, and purple, adding striking colour to the landscape. By late summer to autumn, it bears attractive, raspberry-like red fruits that are edible and loved by birds. Cornus kousa thrives in well-drained soil and prefers a position in full sun to part shade. It is frost-tolerant and disease-resistant, making it an excellent feature tree for Melbourne gardens, courtyards, and mixed landscapes.

Form:

• Tree - Small
• Tree - Medium

Mature Size:

• Height: 4–8 m
• Width: 4–6 m

Aspect:

• Full Sun
• Part Shade

Flowering:

• Flowers in Late Spring
• Flowers in Early Summer

Flower Colour:

• White to Creamy Pink

Key Attributes:

• Bird Attracting
• Edible Fruit
• Perennial
• Autumn Foliage Colour
• Frost Tolerant
• Disease Resistant
• Low Maintenance

Toxicity:

• Non-toxic to humans and pets

Companion Plants:

• Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum)
• Camellia (Camellia spp.)
• Azalea (Rhododendron spp.)
• Magnolia (Magnolia spp.)