Cornus kousa var. chinensis – Chinese Dogwood

A truly spectacular deciduous tree-shrub that earns its place in any garden with a succession of seasonal highlights: showy white bracts in early summer, ornamental strawberry-like fruits in autumn, and rich crimson foliage before the leaves fall. One of the most rewarding flowering trees for a British garden, Chinese Dogwood is a little more free-flowering and vigorous than its Japanese counterpart, making it an outstanding choice for a long-term garden feature.

Seasonal Highlights

In late spring to early summer, the canopy is smothered in large, creamy-white bracts – often mistaken for petals – that surround tiny true flowers and create a breathtaking floral display lasting several weeks. As summer progresses, the attractive ribbed green foliage provides a handsome backdrop. By autumn, pendulous red-pink fruits resembling exotic strawberries ripen among the branches, beloved by birds and wildlife. The foliage then turns vivid shades of crimson, scarlet and purple before falling, rounding off a truly four-season performance.

Key Features

• Spectacular white bracts in early summer
• Ornamental strawberry-like fruits in autumn
• Rich crimson and scarlet autumn foliage
• More floriferous than the species – flowers freely even on younger plants
• Attractive layered branching structure with year-round appeal
• Fully hardy and long-lived

Perfect For

An ideal specimen tree for a lawn or focal point in a medium to large garden. Well suited to a woodland garden or dappled border where it can develop its naturally elegant, tiered habit. Excellent in wildlife-friendly gardens where the fruits attract birds in autumn. Also effective planted in small groups for a dramatic late-spring and summer display.

Growing Conditions

Position: Best in full sun or partial shade. A position with morning sun and some afternoon shelter is ideal, particularly in colder regions. Direct sunlight encourages the most prolific flowering and the best autumn colour.

Soil: Prefers fertile, humus-rich, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil. Grows best in neutral to slightly acidic conditions and may struggle in thin, chalky or heavily alkaline ground. Avoid waterlogged sites. Incorporating plenty of organic matter at planting time gives excellent results.

Care

Watering: Water regularly during the first two to three growing seasons to help the plant establish a strong root system. Once settled, Chinese Dogwood is reasonably drought tolerant but will benefit from watering during prolonged dry spells, particularly in summer when in flower.

Feeding and mulching: Apply a balanced slow-release fertiliser in early spring and mulch generously around the base each year with well-rotted compost or bark. This helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and gradually improve soil fertility – all of which encourage better flowering and fruiting.

Pruning: Very little pruning is needed and the natural form should be respected. Remove any dead, damaged or crossing branches in late winter or early spring before growth begins. Avoid heavy pruning, which can reduce flowering and spoil the elegant tiered silhouette. Light formative shaping when young will help establish a well-balanced framework.

Pests and diseases: Generally trouble-free and robust. Occasionally susceptible to dogwood anthracnose in very wet conditions, but the chinensis variety shows good resistance. Aphids may appear on young growth in spring but rarely cause serious harm.

Looks Great With

Plant alongside acid-loving shrubs such as rhododendrons, azaleas and camellias for a spectacular late-spring woodland border. Combines beautifully with Japanese maples for a stunning autumn display of contrasting leaf colours and shapes. Underplanting with shade-tolerant perennials such as hostas, ferns and epimediums creates a layered, naturalistic effect beneath the canopy. The white bracts pair elegantly with the soft flower heads of philadelphus in early summer.

A magnificent and long-lived garden tree that rewards patience with decades of outstanding multi-season interest – from its celebrated summer bract display to brilliant autumn colour and ornamental fruit.

Guide to Planting Field-Grown Root Balled Plants

Pros:

1. Established Roots: Typically stronger, established roots ensure better initial growth.
2. Immediate Impact: Larger plants provide instant structure and aesthetics.

Cons:

1. Heavy and Bulky: Can be difficult to transport and plant due to size and weight.
2. Seasonal Availability: Generally available only in the dormant season (autumn to early spring).

Preparation for Planting:

1. Unwrap Carefully: Remove any packaging material, but leave the burlap or wire basket on.
2. Keep plants moist: Plants should be kept moist until the time of planting.

Planting Process:

1. Dig a Hole: Make a hole twice the width of the root ball and the same depth.
2. Position Plant: Place the root ball in the hole, ensuring the top is level with the ground surface.
3. Do Not Remove Root Sack: Leave the burlap or wire basket around the root ball. It is bio degradable and will rot away naturally.
4. Backfill: Fill the hole with soil, firming gently around the roots to eliminate air pockets.
5. Water: Water deeply after planting to settle the soil and avoid wilting.

Possibility of Losses:

• Initial Shock: Some plants may suffer transplant shock, leading to potential losses.
• Mitigation: Proper care and consistent watering during the establishment phase can minimise this risk.

Main Causes of Failure:

1. Improper Planting Depth: Planting too deep or too shallow can stress the roots.
2. Poor Soil Conditions: Compacted or poorly drained soil can hinder root growth.
3. Insufficient Watering: Both under-watering and over-watering can lead to plant stress and failure. Strong wind can dry leafy pants.
4. Pest and Disease: Lack of protection and monitoring can result in damage from pests and diseases.

Tips for Success:

1. Stake Larger Plants: Support with stakes to prevent wind damage.
2. Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate temperature.
3. Regular Monitoring: Check for signs of stress, pests, and disease, and address them promptly.

By following these guidelines and providing consistent aftercare, you can successfully plant and establish field-grown root balled plants in your garden.

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Does the height include the pot?

No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description

How long does delivery take?

Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.

Where will you leave my plants?

We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.