Samaritan Kousa Dogwood

The Samaritan Kousa Dogwood is a smaller deciduous tree growing 15 to 25 feet tall and spreading with layered branching to about 20 feet across. Not only does this tree have spectacular white blooms, coming 2 to 3 weeks after the American dogwood, but it has wonderful variegated leaves, edged in pure-white, that turn pink and red in fall. After flowering strawberry-like hanging fruits develop, which are edible. On top of all this, the winter bark is mottled orange, tan and gray. A beautiful tree for a lawn specimen, beside your house or edging a woodland area.

• Beautiful variegated foliage in green and white
• Leaves turn pink and red in fall
• Smothered in pure-white blooms in late spring
• Attractive mottled winter bark of orange, tan and gray
• More disease-resistant than the American dogwood

The Samaritan Kousa Dogwood is much less liable to suffer the diseases of the American dogwood, and it is generally easier to grow. This variety is especially vigorous and reliable, more hardy in zone 5 than many others, and less likely to sun-scorch. It prefers moist, well-drained soils that are acidic or neutral, and grows best in areas with summer rain. Pests, diseases and deer are usually not problems, and the little extra care it needs, especially when young, is rewarded 10 times over by its beauty. Pruning is not needed.