Cornus kousa var. chinensis

Chinese Dogwood

Botanical name: Cornus kousa var. chinensis

Overview
A vigorous, large-flowered form of Kousa dogwood native to China, valued for its especially large creamy-white bracts and strong growth habit. Blooms appear in late spring to early summer after leaf-out, often larger and more abundant than the typical species. Glossy green foliage remains attractive through summer, turning scarlet to burgundy in fall, followed by ornamental red fruit. This variety is widely used in breeding for improved flower size and vigor.

Size



Width: 20–30 ft



Height: 20–30 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 (fruit)



Suitable Conditions



Performs best in cool to moderate climates



More heat- and disease-tolerant than Cornus florida



Allow space for layered branching and full canopy spread



Notes



Shape: Upright when young, maturing to broad and layered



Noted for larger bracts than standard C. kousa



Attractive exfoliating bark develops with age



Excellent specimen tree for lawns, parks, and woodland edges



Minimal pruning required; prune only for structure or deadwood

Plant type

Flowering Ornamental Tree

Height

20-30'

Width

20-30'

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Spring

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Red

Attracts

Butterflies

Soil

Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Specimen

Shape

Broad Upright, Horizontal Branching

Fruit

Yes

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No