Kousa Dogwood
Cornus kousa · Chinese DogwoodUSDA | Grow Zone
5-8Outdoors all year in zones 5 to 8. Anywhere colder, keep it as a houseplant.
- Light
- Partial shade to full sun
- Water
- Consistently moist soil
- Humidity
- 40-60%
- Temperature
- 60-75°F (15-24°C)
- Difficulty
- Intermediate
- Growth
- Moderate
- Mature size
- 15-30 ft tall
Kousa Dogwood, also known as Chinese Dogwood, is a stunning ornamental tree valued for its beautiful flowers and unique fruit. Native to East Asia, it thrives in various conditions and is a favorite among gardeners for its striking appearance and moderate care needs.
Ask Vesper about Kousa Dogwood
Ideal temperature
60-75°F is where it grows fastest.
Spacing and harvest
- Mature size
- 15-30 ft tall
- Plant apart
- 180-300 in
- Frost
- Hardy: survives frost
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Kousa Dogwood prefers consistently moist soil, especially during its first few years of growth.
Water deeply once a week during dry spells, ensuring the soil is well-drained. In the summer, increase frequency to twice a week if the weather is particularly hot. Signs of over-watering include yellowing leaves and root rot, while under-watering may cause wilting and leaf drop.
Light
This tree thrives in partial shade to full sun, ideally receiving 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
In hotter climates, some afternoon shade can help prevent leaf scorch. It is adaptable but prefers a location that avoids harsh afternoon sun, especially in southern regions.
Soil
Kousa Dogwood prefers well-drained, loamy soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0.
A potting mix that includes peat moss, perlite, and compost is recommended for container growth. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot, as this tree does not tolerate soggy conditions.
Humidity
This plant enjoys moderate humidity levels, ideally between 40-60%.
To increase humidity, mist the leaves regularly or place a humidifier nearby. Signs of low humidity stress include browning leaf edges and leaf drop.
Temperature
Kousa Dogwood thrives in temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C) and is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
It can tolerate cold down to -10°F (-23°C) but may suffer in extreme heat, so provide some shade during the hottest months.
Fertilizing
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 in early spring.
Apply according to package instructions, typically every 6-8 weeks during the growing season. Signs of nutrient deficiency include yellowing leaves and stunted growth.
Pruning
Prune Kousa Dogwood in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Use sharp, clean pruning shears to remove dead or crossing branches to improve air circulation. Light shaping can be done to maintain its natural form, but avoid heavy pruning as it may reduce flowering.
Repotting
Repot Kousa Dogwood every 2-3 years or when roots start to outgrow the pot.
Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter. Signs it needs repotting include roots growing out of the drainage holes and stunted growth. Carefully remove the plant from its pot, loosen the roots, and place it in fresh potting mix.
Propagation
Kousa Dogwood can be propagated through softwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer.
Use a sharp, sterile knife to cut 4-6 inch sections from healthy stems, remove lower leaves, and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant in a moist potting mix and keep in a warm, humid environment until roots develop, usually within 4-8 weeks.
When it's unhappy
Leaf spot
Why it happens
Fungal infections caused by excess moisture or poor air circulation.
How to fix it
Improve air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and apply a fungicide if necessary.
Powdery mildew
Why it happens
High humidity and poor air circulation.
How to fix it
Ensure proper spacing between plants and apply a fungicide to affected areas.
Root rot
Why it happens
Over-watering or poorly draining soil.
How to fix it
Allow the soil to dry out between waterings and improve drainage.
Bark splitting
Why it happens
Rapid temperature changes or excessive moisture.
How to fix it
Protect the tree from extreme weather and ensure consistent watering.
Leaf scorch
Why it happens
Excessive sun exposure or drought conditions.
How to fix it
Provide afternoon shade and ensure consistent watering during dry spells.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, apply a balanced fertilizer and monitor for pests. Prune any dead branches and ensure consistent watering as new growth begins.
Summer
During summer, increase watering frequency to twice a week if conditions are dry. Provide some afternoon shade in hotter regions to prevent leaf scorch.
Fall
In fall, reduce watering as temperatures cool. Rake fallen leaves to prevent fungal diseases and prepare for winter by mulching around the base.
Winter
In winter, protect the tree from extreme cold and wind. Avoid heavy pruning during this time, and ensure the soil remains slightly moist.
Toxicity & Safety
Kousa Dogwood is considered non-toxic to pets and children. However, ingestion of large quantities of the fruit may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. The leaves and stems are not toxic but should not be consumed.
Good to know
Why are my Kousa Dogwood leaves turning yellow?
Yellowing leaves can indicate over-watering or nutrient deficiency. Check the soil moisture and consider applying a balanced fertilizer.
How often should I water my Kousa Dogwood?
Water deeply once a week, increasing to twice a week during hot, dry spells. Ensure the soil is moist but not soggy.
What is the best soil for Kousa Dogwood?
Kousa Dogwood prefers well-drained, loamy soil with a pH of 5.5 to 7.0. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and compost works well.
When is the best time to prune Kousa Dogwood?
Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins to maintain shape and remove dead or crossing branches.
How can I increase humidity for my Kousa Dogwood?
Increase humidity by misting the leaves regularly or placing a humidifier nearby, especially during dry indoor conditions.
What are the signs of root rot in Kousa Dogwood?
Signs of root rot include yellowing leaves, wilting, and a foul smell from the soil. Ensure proper drainage and adjust watering habits.
Can Kousa Dogwood grow in full sun?
Yes, Kousa Dogwood can grow in full sun but prefers partial shade, especially in hotter climates to prevent leaf scorch.
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