Greensleeves Kousa Dogwood | Cornus Kousa
The remarkable Greensleeves Kousa Dogwood tree is sure to be the star of your garden show. Even at a height of 15-20 ft, this deciduous tree is considered small, perfect for woodland gardens or shrub borders. It provides seasonal interest in spring, summer and fall, showing off its white flowers, pink fruit, and vibrant red and purple foliage as the weather turns cooler. The lush, green canopy provides wonderful shade in the summer, and can encourage shade dwelling flowers to thrive below it.
Plant Details - Greensleeves Kousa Dogwood (Cornus Kousa)
Family: Cornaceae
Light Requirement: Full sun, Part shade
Water Needs: Moderate, Consistent
Height: 15-20 ft
Spread: 12-16 ft
Growth Rate: Moderate
Soil Preference: Well-drained
Season of Interest: Spring, Summer, Fall
Flower Color: White
Fruit: Edible, Salmon pink, Berry-like
Wildlife Value: Birds, Butterflies
Notable Characteristics of Greensleeves Kousa Dogwood
This lush tree has glossy, dark green leaves that are round and pointed at the tips. It grows in a low branching, vase shape, with interweaving branches that create a thick, green canopy. As it matures, it develops a rounder shape, extending its branches out horizontally and growing more widespread.
The Greensleeves Kousa Dogwood flowers in spring, sprouting small, creamy white blossoms with pointed petals and a light green center, which are beautiful against the dark green leaves. In summer the flowers fade to reveal a strawberry-like, salmon pink fruit that is edible, and will attract birds and insects. The bark adds visual dimension to this plant as well, as it has exfoliating patches of tan bark under the grey-brown outer layer.
Landscape and Maintenance of Kousa Dogwood Tree (Cornus Kousa)
The Greensleeves Kousa Dogwood is native to east asia, specifically Japan, China and Korea. In the United States, it has several native relatives and has naturalized to the area alongside them. This tree is hardy, drought resistant, and resilient to cooler temperatures.
It can also tolerate more shade and sunlight variations than its native relatives. It is deer resistant and thrives in well-drained soil with moderate but consistent watering.
This tree is naturally well balanced, and thus requires little to no pruning, making it low maintenance and simple to care for. Its deep, rich, green color and creamy white blossoms, finished off by summer pink fruits make it visually stunning, and the perfect addition to your garden space.
