Cornus kousa x (Rutban) 'Aurora'

Common Name:
Dogwood – Cornus kousa x (Rutban) 'Aurora'

Description:
Cornus kousa x (Rutban) 'Aurora' is a vigorous, disease-resistant hybrid dogwood renowned for its exceptionally large, creamy-white flowers and lush, dense form. A product of the Rutgers University breeding program, ‘Aurora’ combines the best traits of Cornus florida and Cornus kousa, resulting in a hardy, floriferous, and reliable ornamental tree. In late spring to early summer, it produces a spectacular display of overlapping floral bracts that almost completely cover the tree. The foliage is a rich green throughout the growing season, turning vibrant red to burgundy in autumn. ‘Aurora’ thrives in Melbourne’s climate, preferring full sun to part shade and moist, well-drained soil. With its uniform shape and year-round interest, it makes an ideal specimen tree for lawns, feature beds, or streetscapes.

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
Flowers in Early Summer

Flower Colour:
Creamy White
Soft White

Key Attributes:
Spectacular Flower Display
Large Floral Bracts
Deciduous
Autumn Foliage Colour
Disease Resistant
Cold Hardy
Low Maintenance
Uniform Form
Suitable for Feature Planting

Toxicity:
Non-toxic to humans and animals

Companion Plants:
Cornus kousa 'Satomi'
Cercis canadensis 'Forest Pansy'
Magnolia 'Felix'
Hydrangea quercifolia
Liriope muscari