Cornus kousa Summer Stars

Summer Stars Chinese Dogwood

Botanical name: Cornus kousa ‘Summer Stars’

Overview
A floriferous white-bracted Kousa dogwood valued for its abundant star-shaped blooms that cover the tree in late spring to early summer after leaf-out. The heavy flowering creates a bright, layered display that stands out against glossy green foliage. Leaves remain attractive through summer, turning red to burgundy in fall, followed by ornamental red fruit. ‘Summer Stars’ is prized for its strong bloom performance and uniform habit.

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



Known for especially heavy bloom production



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

15-20'

Width

10-20'

Hardiness zones

5–9

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Late Spring

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Burgandy

Attracts

Birds

Soil

Acidic, Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Specimen

Shape

Horizontal Branching, Vase Shaped

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No