Cornus kousa 'Blue Shadow'

'Blue Shadow' Chinese Dogwood

Botanical name: Cornus kousa ‘Blue Shadow’

Overview
A striking variegated Kousa dogwood known for its unique blue-green foliage edged in creamy white. Leaves emerge with soft variegation that brightens shaded landscapes and maintain contrast through summer. Creamy-white star-shaped bracts appear in late spring to early summer after leaf-out, followed by ornamental red fruit. Fall brings pink to burgundy tones, adding multi-season appeal.

Size



Width: 20–25 ft



Height: 20–25 ft



Hardiness



USDA Zones: 5a–8b



Light



Full sun to partial shade



Morning sun with afternoon shade preferred in hotter regions to protect variegation



Soil



Well-drained soils; prefers moist, organic-rich loam



Slightly acidic pH preferred



Avoid compacted or poorly drained sites



Attracts



Pollinators (flowers)



Birds (ornamental fruit)



Suitable Conditions



Performs best in cool to moderate climates



More heat- and disease-tolerant than Cornus florida



Allow space for layered branching and natural canopy spread



Notes



Shape: Upright when young, maturing to broad and layered



Variegated foliage provides season-long brightness



Exfoliating bark develops with maturity for winter interest



Excellent specimen tree for lawns, woodland edges, and mixed borders



Minimal pruning required; prune only for structure or deadwood

Plant type

Flowering Ornamental Tree

Height

20-25'

Width

20-25'

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Late Spring

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Red

Attracts

Butterflies

Soil

Acidic, Loamy, Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Provide Shade, Specimen

Shape

Horizontal Branching, Wide Spreading

Fruit

Yes

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No