All flowers
Chinese Dogwood Wikimedia Commons
Cornaceae

Chinese Dogwood

Cornus kousa

Durability and charm.

Family
Cornaceae
Genus
Cornus
Native to
China, Japan, Korea
Bloom season
Late Spring, Summer
Type
tree
Height
15-30 ft
Sunlight
full sun to part shade
Soil
well-drained, acidic
Water
moderate
Hardiness
5-8
Lifespan
perennial

Did you know

  • The showy 'petals' are actually bracts surrounding the tiny true flowers clustered in the center.
  • The raspberry-like fruits are edible and taste like a mix of mango, persimmon, and banana.
  • Chinese dogwood is highly resistant to the anthracnose disease that devastated native American dogwoods.
  • Its exfoliating bark creates a beautiful mosaic of tan, gray, and brown patches on mature trees.
  • It blooms about a month later than American dogwood, extending the dogwood season in gardens.

Color meanings

0

durability

1

reliability

2

affection

Uses

  • ornamental specimen tree
  • edible fruit
  • urban landscaping