Cornus kousa

Kousa Dogwood

Growth is best on moist, loamy, well-drained soil with mulch or leaf litter accumulated over the roots. Kousa Dogwood is not particularly drought- or heat-tolerant, requiring irrigation during drought periods in summer. Sensitive to reflected heat so it is poorly adapted to downtown landscapes. It is best in some shade in the southern part of its range, although nearly full sun produces the best flower display.

It is not rated as an urban tough tree and needs open soil space unimpeded by urban structures to look its best. Considered less drought tolerant than the native Flowering Dogwood. Some shade will improve performance in restricted soil spaces. There might be some cold damage in zone 4B. This plant is considered mostly allergy free and causes little or no allergy problems in most people.

Height 15-25 Feet

Spread 20-30 Feet

USDA Hardiness Zone 4B to 7B

Characteristics & Attributes