Cornus kousa (Rutcan) 'Constellation'

Common Name:
Dogwood – Cornus kousa (Rutcan) 'Constellation'

Description:
Cornus kousa (Rutcan) 'Constellation' is a standout deciduous hybrid dogwood, admired for its large, luminous white bracts, strong upright form, and exceptional disease resistance. Developed by Rutgers University, 'Constellation' blooms in late spring with a spectacular display of overlapping white flowers that create a near-continuous canopy of colour across its branches. Unlike Cornus florida, its flowers appear after the foliage emerges, extending the ornamental season. The deep green leaves turn a vibrant reddish-purple in autumn, adding to its multi-season appeal. ‘Constellation’ is ideal for Melbourne gardens, thriving in full sun to part shade and preferring well-drained, humus-rich soil. Its uniform shape and moderate size make it perfect as a feature tree in lawns, borders, or large garden beds.

Form:
Tree – Small
Tree – Medium

Mature Size:
Height: 5–6 m
Width: 4–5 m

Aspect:
Full Sun
Part Shade

Flowering:
Flowers in Late Spring

Flower Colour:
White
Creamy White

Key Attributes:
Spectacular Flower Display
Autumn Foliage Colour
Deciduous
Disease Resistant
Cold Hardy
Low Maintenance
Uniform Growth Habit
Suitable for Feature Planting

Toxicity:
Non-toxic to humans and animals

Companion Plants:
Magnolia 'Butterflies'
Cornus florida 'First Lady'
Cercis canadensis 'Aurelian'
Hydrangea quercifolia
Daphne odora