Cornus kousa Square Dance

Square Dance Chinese Dogwood

Overview
A distinctive white-bracted Kousa dogwood noted for its unusually broad, overlapping bracts that form a fuller, layered floral display than typical kousa types. Blooms appear in late spring to early summer after leaf-out, creating a bright, architectural effect across the canopy. Glossy green foliage remains attractive through summer, turning red to burgundy in fall, followed by ornamental red fruit. ‘Square Dance’ stands out for its unique flower form and refined structure.

Size



Width: 15–20 ft



Height: 15–20 ft



Hardiness



USDA Zones: 5a–8b



Light



Full sun to partial shade



Morning sun with afternoon shade preferred in hotter regions



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 mature canopy spread



Notes



Shape: Upright when young, maturing to broad and layered



Unique overlapping bracts create fuller bloom appearance



Exfoliating bark develops with maturity for winter interest



Excellent specimen tree for lawns, courtyards, and mixed borders



Minimal pruning required; prune only for structure or deadwood

Plant type

Deciduous Tree, Flowering Ornamental Tree

Height

15-20'

Width

15-20'

Hardiness zones

5–7

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Spring

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Dark Green

Fall color

Red

Attracts

Butterflies

Soil

Loamy, Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Specimen

Shape

Broad Upright, Horizontal Branching

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No