The average size of a Cornus kousa tree is between 15-30ft tall and 8-15ft wide, with some specimens reaching up to 50ft tall. The tree has a gradual pyramidal shape with branches that spread wide and downward.
Other than its height, the Cornus kousa is an attractive ornamental tree that makes an excellent specimen tree or hedge. Its ivory-white blooms appear in late spring, making it an interesting addition to the landscape.
In autumn the fruits ripen to a pink color and the leaves take on a russet-red tint before they fall. Its glossy, dark-green leaves are particularly attractive. The Cornus kousa is best suited for USDA Zones 5-8.
How fast does a kousa dogwood tree grow?
Kousa Dogwood trees are medium to slow-growing trees that typically reach a height of 15-25 feet with a spread of 12-20 feet. On average, they grow between 6 and 12 inches per year, with an annual growth rate of about 1 foot.
Different climates, soil conditions, and cultural practices affect the growth rate of Kousa Dogwood trees. With proper growing conditions, Kousa Dogwoods can reach full maturity in 15 to 20 years, although it can vary depending on the size and type of tree.
Additionally, pruning can also affect growth rates and is only recommended by qualified arborists.
Where is the place to plant a kousa dogwood?
The optimal place to plant a kousa dogwood is in a location that has well-drained soil, partial shade, and protection from strong winds. When planting, the tree should be spaced 8-10 feet apart from other kousa dogwoods or other trees, and 5-7 feet from structures or other plants.
Kousa dogwood prefers soil with a pH of 6. 0-7. 5, but can tolerate a range of 5. 5-8. 0. Plant the tree slightly deeper than it was grown in the nursery. The mulch should be about an inch deep and kept about 6 inches away from the trunk.
Water frequently and deeply during the establishment period.
Can you keep a kousa dogwood tree small?
Yes, it is possible to keep a kousa dogwood (Cornus kousa) tree small. Kousa dogwoods naturally stay small and compact, usually reaching a height of about 15-20 feet. To further maintain a smaller size, pruning should be conducted regularly.
In fact, since kousa dogwoods have a low branch density, pruning is relatively easy and should be done after the blooming season. Pruning involves the removal of old, dying branches and an occasional light thinning out of the tree’s branches and foliage.
Another effective way to maintain a small size is root pruning. Root pruning involves cutting back the taproot, which is the principle root that supports the kousa dogwood. The goal of root pruning is to promote lateral root growth, which can make the tree less top-heavy and ultimately help keep the tree’s size in check.
As a general rule of thumb, it is best to leave two to three inches of the taproot intact when pruning the root. Finally, slow-release fertilizers can be applied during the winter and spring months to ensure healthy growth and maintenance of the kousa dogwood.
Is a kousa dogwood a messy tree?
No, a kousa dogwood is not a particularly messy tree. This species of deciduous tree is known for its showy, four-petaled white or pale pink flowers and is a common ornamental tree in landscaping. The tree rarely reaches more than 30 feet in height and width, making it ideal for small residential yards.
The tree produces green berries, but they are tidy, remain on the tree until they later turn to a reddish brown color, and they will only drop from the tree if they are disturbed. In comparison to other landscape trees, such as oak and maple, the kousa dogwood is not considered to be a messy tree as it does not produce a large falling debris.
Do Kousa dogwoods have invasive roots?
No, Kousa dogwoods (Cornus kousa) typically do not have invasive roots. However, it is important to consider their space requirements when planting. Kousa dogwoods prefer a well-drained soil with plenty of organic material incorporated.
Despite the fact that their roots are not considered invasive, they need plenty of space, so it is important to consider the potential lateral space requirements when selecting a location to plant. In order to avoid any potential surface or underground root damage, it is best to space Kousa dogwoods at least 10 to 20 feet away from driveways, buildings, pathways, and other structures.
There should also be more than 3 feet of soil between the Kousa dogwood and any sensitive root systems, such as those of nearby trees and shrubs.
Can you trim dogwood trees to keep them small?
Yes, dogwood trees can be trimmed to keep them small. Doing so must be done carefully, however. As with any other pruning, dogwood trees should only be pruned in late winter or early spring when the tree is still dormant.
Pruning should be done when the tree is young and with only 1/3 of the top growth cut at a time to keep the tree balanced. Avoid cutting branches too close to the trunk of the tree or removing more than 1/3 of the top growth in a single pruning session, as this could remove the natural form of the tree.
Furthermore, dogwood trees should not be pruned too severely or too often, as this can weaken the tree and make it more susceptible to disease.
Is there a dwarf kousa dogwood?
Yes, there is a dwarf kousa dogwood (also known as Japanese kousa dogwood). This variety of dogwood tree is a compact and slow-growing shrub-like tree that reaches only 4 to 6 feet tall and 4 to 6 feet wide at maturity.
It has a multi-stemmed, mounded form and requires minimal pruning. Its showy white blooms appear early summer and give way to bright red fruits that are liked by birds. The tree is adapted to a wide range of soil conditions and sun exposure, making it well-suited for many gardens and landscapes.
Its medium green foliage turns to brilliant yellow in the fall. The dwarf kousa dogwood is an excellent choice for a small landscape tree, foundation planting, and an addition to a perennial garden.
How close to a house can you plant a kousa dogwood?
When planting a Kousa Dogwood, the best location is an area that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight each day and protection from strong winds. It is important to select a spot that is far enough away from the house and other structures for mature size tree growth, so an ideal distance away would be at least 8 feet from any structure.
The tree should also be planted a minimum of 10 feet away from power lines and building overhangs, as well as away from other, larger trees that could block too much light and adversely affect the growth of your Kousa Dogwood.
Lastly, be sure to plant your tree in an area that allows room for the root system to spread out to 10 feet or wider without being constricted by other plants or hardscape. This will maximize the longevity of the tree and ensure it lasts a lifetime.
What is the difference between a dogwood and a kousa dogwood?
The main difference between a dogwood (Cornus florida) and a Kousa dogwood (Cornus kousa) is the time of bloom. Dogwood trees bloom in the spring while Kousa dogwoods bloom later, in late spring or early summer.
Additionally, the shape of their flowers and fruits tend to differ. Dogwood flowers typically consist of four white petals, while Kousa dogwoods tend to have fewer petals that are more pointed or cupped.
Dogwood fruits are usually bright red or purple, while the fruits of Kousa dogwoods are pale green. Finally, the growth rate and form of the two trees are distinct. Dogwood trees are usually medium-sized with a conical shape, while Kousa dogwoods tend to be larger and more multi-stemmed with a more irregular shape.
What is the type of dogwood tree?
The type of dogwood tree is Cornus, which is a genus of about 30–60 species of woody plants in the family Cornaceae, commonly known as dogwoods. They are found throughout temperate and subtropical regions of the world, including East Asia, Europe, North America and South America.
Dogwoods are deciduous trees or shrubs distinguished by opposite leaves and characteristic flowers. The flowers are often surrounded by an involucre of four to eight showy, three- to five-petaled bracts.
Dogwoods can be divided into two basic categories: deciduous trees, such as the flowering dogwood, Cornus florida; and evergreen shrubs, such as the kousa dogwood, Cornus kousa. Dogwood trees can be either deciduous or evergreen, and are prized for their flowers, brightly colored bracts, and attractive bark.
Dogwoods are tolerant of a wide range of sites and soils. They are beautiful and adaptable, making them good candidates for the home landscape.
What can you do with kousa dogwood berries?
Kousa dogwood berries are edible and can be used to make jams, jellies, or syrups. They can also be used to make pies, crisps, tarts, and cobblers. Additionally, the berries can be used to make wine and can be dried and added to cereal, ice cream, bread, or muffins for an extra flavoring.
Additionally, they can be used to garnish desserts and salads. Kousa dogwood berries are also a good source of antioxidants, vitamin C, and minerals, so they’re not only delicious, but nutritious too!.
How to prepare kousa dogwood fruit?
Kousa Dogwood fruit is a sweet, tart fruit native to East Asia and is often compared to a cross between a strawberry and a peach in flavor. It can be prepared in a variety of ways.
To prepare Kousa Dogwood fruit, first pick the fruit while it’s still slightly green as it will ripen within a few days. Be sure to avoid any rotten or damaged fruit. Once you have picked enough fruit, give it a good wash under cold running water.
Next, carefully remove the skin, peeling it away from the flesh and discarding any bruises or blemishes. Once the skin has been removed, slice the fruit into eight or sixteen pieces, dispelling the stone in the center.
With your pieces of fruit ready, you can now choose your cooking method. Try gently stewing the pieces of fruit with a little sugar and some spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg to enhance the flavor and make a delicious compote.
Alternatively, Kousa Dogwood fruit can be used raw in salads or atop toast, alongside yoghurt or ice cream. You can also use it to create delicious smoothies, jams, chutneys and even cocktails.
Whatever you decide to do with your Kousa Dogwood fruit, enjoy it knowing you’re enjoying a healthy, delicious and unique fruit.
Do dogwood berries taste good?
No, unfortunately dogwood berries do not taste good. They have a very tart, acidic taste and can be extremely bitter. They are not recommended to eat as they can also cause stomach upset and can contain toxic compounds.
Dogwood berries tend to be used as ornamentals and can be used to make dyes or in landscaping.
Are kousa dogwood tree roots invasive?
Kousa dogwood trees, also known as Japanese dogwood, are attractive trees with white flowers, attractive exfoliating bark, and edible fruit. They are becoming increasingly popular as ornamental trees in the U.
S. , however there is some debate as to whether Kousa dogwood tree roots are invasive.
From an horticultural point of view, Kousa dogwood tree roots are not considered to be particularly invasive. They do not typically spread far from the tree, as many trees do, and generally remain close to the surface, producing a somewhat shallow root system.
This can make them easier to manage and maintain, as the roots are less likely to damage pavement, foundations and other hard surfaces.
However, Kousa dogwoods are relatively fast-growing trees, meaning they do require additional monitoring of root growth. If the growth is not monitored, they can spread farther than desired or become too densely rooted.
The species is also tolerant of a wide range of soils and relatively drought tolerant, so there is a greater chance of them taking advantage of available space and resources.
With proper care and monitoring, Kousa dogwood tree roots can be managed without becoming overly invasive. Pruning root systems annually or biannually and planting in locations where they can have the space they need to grow can help to keep root systems within their desired bounds.