Cornus kousa var. chinensis - Flowering Dogwood

Cornus kousa var. chinensis is a variety of Dogwood that is very interesting for its vigour and the abundance of its pure white flowers. The flowers give the illusion of being delicately placed directly on the bright green foliage, which contrasts remarkably with the whiteness of the bracts. This strongly growing bush is very elegant thanks to its spreading habit with layered and horizontal branches that give it an architectural look, and bring an oriental touch to the garden. In September, the Chinese Dogwood is covered with small fruits that strangely resemble strawberries and give the tree a strong decorative power. The spectacle continues until autumn when the foliage ignites and turns fiery red before falling. This Dogwood is very hardy and can be grown in most regions!

The Kousa Dogwood is a small tree, native to Japan, China, and Korea. Its architectural silhouette, drawn by its layered and horizontal branches as well as its compact and spreading habit, evokes an oriental landscape. This small tree, which measures between 4 and 5 metres (13 and 16 feet) in gardens, has many attractions. In early summer, its deep green foliage is covered with a profusion of white flowers giving the illusion of freshly fallen snow. These are actually green glomerules that give rise to solitary star-shaped inflorescences which are well-defined and composed of 4 pointed bracts. The longevity of the flowers, which turn pink before fading, enchants the garden for weeks. In September, the flowering Dogwood is covered with small red fruits, similar to strawberries. The higher the summer temperatures, the more generous the fruiting. The fruits are edible, fleshy, with a sweet flavour, but they do not have any real taste interest, mostly providing ornamental value to the tree. The leaves of the Cornus kousa are ovate, slightly wavy on the edges and bright green. They measure between 5 and 8 cm (2 and 3.1 in) and are arranged opposite each other along the stem. In autumn, they offer a flamboyant spectacle when they turn vivid red colours before falling. The strong decorative power of the Flowering Dogwoods has encouraged nurserymen to obtain new varieties with different characteristics.

The chinensis variety of Cornus kousa has a greater vigour than the natural species, as well as an even more spectacular flowering. In fact, the Chinese Dogwood can reach 7 metres (23 feet) in height with a spread of 5 metres. However, its slow growth will not allow it to exceed 4 metres (13 feet) in height after 10 years of cultivation. The pure white flowers of this variety are larger than those of the typical species and particularly abundant. From June to July, they appear as if sprinkled directly on the foliage, almost completely covering it in a magical scene.

Cornus kousa prefers continental climates and temperate zones. Extremely cold temperatures can cause reduced flowering. However, this bush is very hardy and can withstand frosts of at least -20°C (-4°F). It tolerates sunny exposures in areas with moderately hot summers. In hot regions, it should be planted in a spot sheltered from the scorching sun. The chinensis variety of Cornus kousa likes fertile, well-drained soils with an acidic tendency. It can tolerate clay soils as long as it is protected from excess moisture, especially in winter. Plant it in a deep hole lined with clay pellets, coarse sand, or gravel to ensure good drainage. At planting, provide it with compost and ericaceous soil. A mulch of pine bark will help maintain soil moisture and acidity. This Cornus is easy to grow if planted properly. Pruning is not essential but can be done at the end of winter to remove diseased or dead wood and crossing branches in order to maintain a beautiful habit. Resistant to diseases and low maintenance, it can be forgotten while attracting attention!

Cornus kousa chinensis reaches its full size and reveals its splendour when planted in isolation, in the middle of a lawn for example. But it can also be placed at the back of a flower bed and make a living screen that is lush, flowering, and glowing. It blends perfectly with all plants that prefer ericaceous soil and will work wonders alongside 'Mountain Fire' Pieris, 'Limelight' Hydrangea paniculata, or 'Osakazuki' Japanese Maple.