This Chinese Dogwood is noted for its exceptional late spring blossom. As with many dogwoods, the flowers are actually tiny and green, but surrounded by 4 large bracts which give the appearance of blossom.
In late summer the tree produces small pink/red berries, rather like small raspberries. These can be eaten fresh or used in cooking, but Cornus kousa is primarily an ornamental tree.
As autumn approaches the leaves turn from green to orange to crimson red.
The Chinese dogwoods are naturally resistant to the fungal disease called anthranose. The tree remains fairly small, reaching 3m after about 10 years and going on to perhaps 5m in very good conditions - but this is a very slow growing tree so space is unlikely to be an issue.
This variety description was researched and written by Orange Pippin staff. Last checked: 2022.