Cornus kousa ‘Chinensis’ – Elegant Blooms and Vibrant Autumn Colour
Cornus kousa ‘Chinensis’ is a refined ornamental dogwood valued for its spectacular late spring floral display and brilliant autumn foliage. This variety produces large, creamy-white bracts that surround inconspicuous flowers, creating a showy, delicate bloom that brightens any garden.
After flowering, ‘Chinensis’ develops attractive, bright red, raspberry-like fruits that add colour and attract birds through summer and autumn. Its glossy green leaves mature to vivid shades of fiery red and purple in the fall, providing multi-seasonal visual appeal.
This compact tree typically reaches 4–6 metres in height, making it suitable for smaller gardens or as a striking specimen in larger landscapes. It thrives in well-drained, fertile soil with full sun to partial shade, ideally in a sheltered position to maximise flowering and autumn colour.
Why Choose Cornus kousa ‘Chinensis’?
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Showy White Bracts – Large, creamy-white flowers in late spring.
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Bright Red Fruit – Raspberry-like berries that attract wildlife.
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Vivid Autumn Foliage – Leaves turn fiery red and purple.
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Compact Size – Perfect for smaller gardens or patios.
Planting & Care Guide
Position: Full sun to partial shade, sheltered from strong winds.
Soil: Prefers fertile, moist, well-drained soil.
Watering: Regular watering especially during establishment and dry spells.
Feeding: Apply balanced, slow-release fertiliser in spring for healthy growth.
Pruning: Minimal pruning; remove dead or crossing branches in late winter if needed.
Design & Planting Ideas
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Use as a specimen tree or focal point in small to medium gardens.
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Pair with spring bulbs for seasonal layering.
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Combine with evergreens to provide year-round structure.
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Ideal for wildlife-friendly gardens as berries attract birds.