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Description
Cornus Kousa Satomi is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Cornaceae family. It is a popular ornamental tree that is known for its stunning pink bracts that bloom in late spring. It is also commonly referred to as the Japanese dogwood or the Kousa dogwood. The tree is native to Japan, China, and Korea and can grow up to 20-30 feet tall and wide.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cornales |
| Family | Cornaceae |
| Genus | Cornus |
Appearance
Cornus Kousa Satomi has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other dogwood trees. The tree has a dense, spreading habit with a rounded crown. The leaves are dark green and oval-shaped and can grow up to 4 inches long. In the fall, the leaves turn a beautiful reddish-purple color. The most notable feature of the Cornus Kousa Satomi is its pink bracts that bloom in late spring or early summer. The bracts, which are modified leaves, are pink and are arranged in a tiered fashion around the tree’s small, inconspicuous flowers. The tree also produces small, red, edible fruits that resemble raspberries.
Care Guide
Cornus Kousa Satomi is a relatively easy tree to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this beautiful tree:
Water
The tree should be watered regularly during the first few years of growth to help establish a strong root system. After that, the tree can tolerate some drought but should be watered during prolonged dry periods.
Fertilization
The tree should be fertilized in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing in the fall as this can encourage new growth that may not have time to harden off before winter.
Soil
The tree prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. If the soil is too alkaline, the tree may experience nutrient deficiencies.
Sunlight
The tree prefers full sun to partial shade. However, it can tolerate some shade but may not produce as many blooms.
Hardiness Zones
The tree is hardy in zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cornus Kousa Satomi is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues to watch out for:
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that can affect the leaves of the tree, causing a white, powdery coating. This can be treated with fungicides and by ensuring good air circulation around the tree.
Dogwood Borer
The dogwood borer is a wood-boring insect that can damage the tree’s trunk and branches. Infested branches should be pruned and destroyed to prevent the spread of the pest.
Habitat
Cornus Kousa Satomi is native to Japan, China, and Korea and can be found growing in forest edges, along stream banks, and in open woodlands.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Cornus Kousa Satomi?
A: The tree should be watered regularly during the first few years of growth to help establish a strong root system. After that, the tree can tolerate some drought but should be watered during prolonged dry periods.
Q: When do the pink bracts of Cornus Kousa Satomi bloom?
A: The pink bracts bloom in late spring or early summer.
Q: Does Cornus Kousa Satomi produce edible fruit?
A: Yes, the tree produces small, red, edible fruits that resemble raspberries.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Cornus Kousa Satomi?
A: The tree is hardy in zones 5-8.
Related Plants
- Cornus florida (flowering dogwood)
- Cornus mas (Cornelian cherry)
- Cornus nuttallii (Pacific dogwood)
References
- “Cornus Kousa Satomi.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a946.
- “Cornus Kousa.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/18249/Cornus-kousa/Details.
- “Japanese Dogwood.” The Morton Arboretum, www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/japanese-dogwood.
