Dogwood, Kousa, Bare Root

Kousa Dogwood (Cornus kousa)

Kousa Dogwood is a non-native, ornamental dogwood species from East Asia (China, Korea, Japan), prized for its exceptional four-season beauty, showy late-spring blooms, and edible red fruits. Unlike native dogwoods that bloom in early spring, Kousa blooms after the leaves emerge, offering a longer floral display that avoids spring frost damage. It’s also highly disease-resistant, especially to dogwood anthracnose, making it a reliable alternative in gardens or landscapes affected by disease pressure.

Key Characteristics

• Showy Flowers and Edible Fruit
  Large, star-shaped white flowers bloom in May–June, creating a dramatic show after most spring-flowering trees have faded. In late summer, the tree produces raspberry-like red drupes with creamy, sweet pulp that is edible fresh or in preserves. Birds also feed on the fruit.
• Disease-Resistant and Low Maintenance
  Kousa Dogwood is notably resistant to anthracnose and powdery mildew, two diseases that commonly affect native flowering dogwoods (Cornus florida). It performs reliably in urban, suburban, and woodland-edge landscapes with minimal care once established.
• Excellent Fall Color and Winter Texture
  In fall, its pointed, dark green leaves turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and scarlet. Over winter, its mottled, exfoliating bark adds texture and visual interest, especially in naturalized or four-season gardens.
• Ideal for Specimen Plantings and Edible Landscapes
  With its small size, layered branching, and striking blooms, Kousa Dogwood works well as a specimen tree, in mixed borders, or as a transition tree between cultivated and natural areas. Its edible fruit adds value in diverse permaculture or edible ornamental plantings.
• Adaptable to a Range of Soils
  Prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soils, but tolerates medium-dry to medium moisture levels and some clay. Once established, it is moderately drought-tolerant and performs well in full sun to part shade.

Product Details

• Native Range: East Asia (non-native)
• Plant Life Cycle: Deciduous tree
• Sun Requirements: Full sun to part shade
• Soil Requirements: Medium-dry to medium, well-drained
• Mature Height: 15–25 feet
• Bloom Time: May–June
• Bloom Color: White
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5–8

Kousa Dogwood is an elegant, resilient flowering tree that combines ornamental charm with practical value. Its late blooms, edible fruit, and disease resistance make it a strong choice for edible landscapes and four-season gardens.