Overview

Cornus kousa chinensis is a bushy tree in the genus Cornus, part of the Cornaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 10.0 m tall. Cornus kousa chinensis grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, wildflower meadow, wildlife gardens, flower borders and beds and hedging and screens. It is native to China.

About

Cornus kousa is a small deciduous tree 8–12 m (26–39 ft) tall, in the flowering plant family Cornaceae. Common names include kousa, kousa dogwood, Chinese dogwood, Korean dogwood, and Japanese dogwood.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0Cornus kousa

About the genus

Cornus is a genus of about 30–60 species of woody plants in the family Cornaceae, commonly known as dogwoods or cornels, which can generally be distinguished by their blossoms, berries, and distinctive bark. Most are deciduous trees or shrubs, but a few species are nearly herbaceous perennial subshrubs, and some species are evergreen. Several species have small heads of inconspicuous flowers surrounded by an involucre of large, typically white petal-like bracts, while others have more open clusters of petal-bearing flowers.

Wikipedia contributors, "Cornus", CC BY-SA 4.0Cornus

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Cornus

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Sandy, Loamy, Clay
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H7

Plant details

Cornus kousa chinensis size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Tree
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
10.0 m
Suggested uses
Cottage and informal garden, Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens, Flower borders and beds, Hedging and screens
Native to
China

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Cornus kousa chinensis

Propagation
Seed, Hardwood cuttings
Pest resistance
Aphids, Scale insects, Slugs, Snails, Powdery mildew, Vine weevil
Disease resistance
Cornus anthracnose, Honey fungus

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Cornus kousa chinensis?

Cornus kousa chinensis prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Cornus kousa chinensis need?

Cornus kousa chinensis is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

How big does Cornus kousa chinensis grow?

Cornus kousa chinensis reaches a height of 10.0 m.

Is Cornus kousa chinensis hardy in the UK?

Cornus kousa chinensis has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.

How do I propagate Cornus kousa chinensis?

Seed, Hardwood cuttings.

More in the Cornus genus

Browse all Cornus