Cornus Kousa Subsp. Chinensis

Description

Cornus Kousa Subsp. Chinensis, also known as Chinese Dogwood, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Cornaceae family. It is native to China, Korea, and Japan and is widely cultivated in gardens and parks for its ornamental value. The tree can grow up to 20 feet tall and has a rounded shape with a dense canopy. It blooms in late spring with white to pink flowers that resemble small stars and produces edible fruits that are red and berry-like.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Chinese Dogwood has a beautiful appearance that makes it a popular choice for ornamental purposes. The bark of the tree is gray and smooth, while the leaves are dark green and ovate with a pointed tip. In the fall, the leaves turn a deep red or purple color, adding to the tree’s appeal. The flowers are white to pink and have four petals that create a star-like shape. The fruits are red, round, and have a bumpy texture, making them look like raspberries.

Care Guide

The Chinese Dogwood is a low-maintenance tree that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:

Water

Water the tree regularly during the first year after planting to establish a strong root system. After that, the tree can survive on natural rainfall, but it may need additional watering during dry spells.

Fertilization

Fertilize the tree once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer to promote growth and flowering.

Soil

The Chinese Dogwood prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but it does not do well in overly wet or dry soil.

Sunlight

The tree prefers partial shade to full sun but can tolerate full shade. It is best to plant it in a location that gets morning sun and afternoon shade.

Hardiness Zones

The Chinese Dogwood is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8.

Common Pests & Diseases

The Chinese Dogwood is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to the following:

Anthracnose

This fungal disease can cause leaf spots, defoliation, and twig dieback. To prevent it, prune infected branches and avoid overhead watering.

Borer Insects

Borer insects can cause bark damage and weaken the tree. To prevent them, keep the tree healthy and avoid mechanical damage to the trunk.

Scale Insects

Scale insects can cause yellowing and wilting of leaves. To prevent them, prune infected branches and apply horticultural oil.

Habitat

The Chinese Dogwood is native to China, Korea, and Japan and grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, stream banks, and mountain slopes.

Question and Answer

Q: Is the Chinese Dogwood a good tree for small gardens?

A: Yes, the Chinese Dogwood is a great tree for small gardens because it has a compact size and a beautiful appearance.

Q: How often should I fertilize my Chinese Dogwood?

A: You should fertilize your Chinese Dogwood once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.

Q: Can the Chinese Dogwood tolerate full shade?

A: Yes, the Chinese Dogwood can tolerate full shade, but it prefers partial shade to full sun.

Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Chinese Dogwood?

A: The Chinese Dogwood is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8.

Related Plants

Here are some related plants to the Chinese Dogwood:

• Cornus Florida – Flowering Dogwood
• Cornus Nuttallii – Pacific Dogwood
• Cornus Sericea – Red Osier Dogwood
• Cornus Mas – Cornelian Cherry

References

• “Cornus Kousa.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d470.
• “Cornus kousa.” PlantNet, plantnet.org/en/bed/species/cornus-kousa-subsp-chinensis/
• “Cornus kousa subsp. chinensis.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/14736/cornus-kousa-subsp-chinensis/details.