Cornus kousa var. chinensis ‘China Girl’ (Chinese Dogwood)

Prized for its four seasons of interest, Cornus kousa var. chinensis ‘China Girl’ (Chinese Dogwood) is a large, multi-stemmed shrub or small tree with a broad, vase-shaped crown. In late spring, an incredible array of star-like blooms appear. They consist of four huge, pointed, milky white bracts surrounding the center cluster of tiny yellowish-green flowers. The blossoms give way to a profusion of fleshy, deep pink, strawberry-like fruit in summer, which persist into fall unless devoured by hungry birds. In summer, its canopy of layered branches, clad with ovate, dark green leaves, provides shade and beauty. In the fall, it offers spectacular bright color when its foliage turns attractive shades of red and orange. Its exfoliating, mottled, tan, and gray bark adds interest to the landscape in winter. Cultivated since around 1910, this Chinese Dogwood cultivar is still very popular. Plant as a specimen or in small groupings for a dramatic effect.

• Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
• Grows up to 15-25 ft. tall (450-750 cm) and 12-15 ft. wide (360-450 cm).
• Performs best in full sun to part shade, in organically rich, acidic to neutral, well-drained soils. Provide consistent moisture during hot summers.
• Easy to grow, easy to care for, deer resistant.
• Chinese Dogwood naturally forms a well-branched framework and requires little or no pruning.
• Great choice as a specimen near patios or lawns, in shrub borders, woodland gardens, or naturalized areas.
• Dogwoods are susceptible to a range of pests and diseases.
• Propagate by semi-hardwood or hardwood cuttings.
• Native to China.