Chinese dogwood
Cornus kousa var. chinensis 'Milky Way'
Overview
The Chinese dogwood (Cornus kousa var. chinensis 'Milky Way') is an amazing tree species with many features that make it unique. This tree has large curved leaves and a unique open branching pattern. It produces a beautiful show of white flowers in the spring that fades to pink. The tree is also covered in clusters of red, white and pink fruits that look like raspberries in the fall. These fruits are edible and high in antioxidants. It tolerates a wide range of soil types and is great for landscaping around your home. The Chinese dogwood is an amazing species for adding beauty and style to your outdoor area.
Care Guide
Watering
Water Chinese dogwood regularly for the first 2 years of its life, providing 1–2 inches of water per week. During extended drought periods, water more frequently to help ensure that the soil remains moist. The frequency of watering should be decreased gradually over time, transitioning eventually to deep watering every 2–3 weeks. Over watering can lead to root rot and fungal diseases.
Light
Chinese dogwood (Cornus kousa var. chinensis 'Milky Way') prefers to be in sunlight for part of the day, such as a few hours in the morning when the sun is at its lowest and the light is the least intense. This should be followed by some afternoon shade as the sun gets hotter. If planted in an area where there is direct sunlight all day, providing some shade in the afternoon will protect the plant from sunburn and other damage from the intense summer heat. During the winter months, the Chinese dogwood should get plenty of bright light, preferably 6 hours per day.
Temperature
Hardiness zone 4–8.
Pruning
Chinese dogwood can be pruned in late winter or early spring (February or March). Prune off any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. Also, to promote a bushier structure, lightly prune the new growth that appears in late spring or early summer. Avoid pruning too much as it can inhibit flower production. Chinese dogwood can also be pruned in the fall after it has finished flowering.
Propagation
Air Layering Propagation, Grafting Propagation, Cutting, Seed Propagation
Uses & Symbolism
Attracts: Birds, Butterflies.
Related plants
Other plants you might like if you grow Chinese dogwood.
